5 2 Trail
8 5 Project
This document was created with the support of:
City of Brighton
City of Fort Lupton
City of Dacono
Town of Frederick
Town of Firestone
Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment
Colorado State Trails Program
Barr Lake State Park
St. Vrain State Park
and with the assistance of:
Weld County Planning
Adams County Parks and Community Resources
National Park Service
Rivers, Trails, & Conservation Assistance Program
CSU-DOLA Community Assistance Program
Colorado State Parks
Colorado Department of Transportation
Steps to a Healthier Weld County
National Park Service GIS Division, Intermountain Region

Flowers on 52-85 Trail
Alignment in Frederick
Walkers on trail near Veterans Park and Highway 7 in
Brighton, CO

Trail at Pearson Park in
Fort Lupton

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Trail User
in Frederick
Recreation
Area

Cyclist on
Firestone Trail

Contents
Introduction

1-1

The Planning Process

2-1

52-85 Trail & the Colorado Front Range Trail

3-1

52-85 Trail Project Study Area

4-1

Healthy Active Communities

5-1

The Communities We’re Connecting

6-1

52-85 Trail Segment Alignments

7-1

Colorado Front Range Trail

Development Guidelines

8-1

52-85 Trail Development Guidelines

9-1

Trailheads

10-1

Maintenance

11-1

Signage

12-1

Implementation Plan

13-1

Funding and Policy Resources

14-1

Appendix A - Community Input

A-1

Appendix B - Resolutions of Support

B-1

Appendix C - Funding Mechanism Toolbox

C-1

Appendix D - Trailhead Concept Drawings

D-1

Colorado Front Range Legacy Trail in Firestone

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52-85 Trail Master plan

1

Introduction

5 2 Trail
8 5 Project

Intent Of The Plan
The 52-85 Trail Master Plan is a cooperative effort by communities in
southwest Weld County, northern Adams County, and other partners
to coordinate trails planning, design, construction and maintenance.
This plan provides documentation of inter-agency collaboration and
coordination and provides an outline for continued cooperation in
the planning, location, construction and maintenance of trails along
the segment of the Colorado Front Range Trail (CFRT). The trail
connects Brighton, Fort Lupton,
Dacono, Frederick and Firestone as
“The 52-85 Trail
well as Barr Lake State Park and Saint
Vrain State Park. This effort is known
Project is named
as the 52-85 Trail Project, named after
after the intersecting
the intersecting state highways at the
state highways at
heart of the project area.

the heart of the
project area.”

We hope the multi-community
collaboration demonstrated in the 5285 Trail Working Group will continue
the coordinated regional planning for interconnected trails between
the 52-85 Trail communities and serve as an important link in the
Colorado Front Range Trail.
This master plan provides guidelines for a regional trail system that
will provide high-quality outdoor recreation opportunities. It will
enable positive connections between our unique communities and
the natural environment in a seamless experience that capitalizes on
each community’s unique attributes.

Colorado Front Range Legacy Trail in Firestone

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52-85 Trail Master plan

Background
In 2004, the communities of Brighton, Fort Lupton, Dacono,
Frederick, and Firestone along with the Rivers, Trails and
Conservation Assistance Program of the National Park Service,
Colorado State University - Colorado Department of Local Affairs,
and Colorado State Parks State Trails Program came together to form
the 52-85 Trail Working Group. Together, the group developed a
shared vision statement, articulated a set of goals, enlisted the help
and support of key entities, secured resolutions of support from
partnering municipalities, presented the 52-85 Trail Project to various
boards, councils, and community groups, compiled existing trails
plans and GIS data for the region and identified trail alignments
based on field work, GIS and other map research and public input.
The vision for the 52-85 Trail Project is to offer a network of trails
that is a vital and vibrant part of the Colorado Front Range Trail,
providing opportunities for recreation, transportation, education,
and economic benefits for communities, residents, and visitors
alike. Trail users will experience diverse scenic, historic, natural
and cultural resources unique to the 52-85 Trail Project area.

Goals
1. A regional trails master plan supported by the public, local, state
and federal government.
2. A plan that incorporates our unique scenic, cultural, natural and
historic resources in a sensitive way.
3. A plan that is buildable and sustainable.
The 52-85 Trail Working Group expects coordinated trail planning in
this region to provide:
1. Interconnected accessible trails, greenways, and open space.
2. Alternatives for regional modes of transportation.
3. Positive attention to the 52-85 Trail Project area.
4. Partnerships between state and local government.
5. The preservation of economic benefits associated with trails and
open space.
6. A system of close-to-home trails that promote physical activity.
7. The potential for interpretation of the scenic, historic, natural,
and cultural resources in our area.
8. The potential for increased tourism.

2
Forming the Working Group
Since the 52-85 Trail Working Group began collaborating in 2004,
the group has worked through a series of steps to move from a vision
for the 52-85 Trail toward on the ground results. The initial steps
included solidifying a working group by inviting a variety of potential
project partners to participate in the project. The group then worked
to identify the project area, develop a common vision and to secure
resolutions of support from participating communities.
Understanding Existing Conditions Through Maps
With that done, working group partners began collecting existing
mapping from communities, Weld County, Adams County, and the
Colorado State Trails Program and compiling that information into
one map to illustrate existing and planned trails in the project area.
The National Park Service GIS division in Lakewood and Colorado
State University - Department of Local Affairs helped the group with
map compilation and documentation of existing conditions.
The mapping exercise consulted and incorporated existing community
trails planning efforts including the 2004 Brighton Greenways and
Trails Master Plan, Adams County GIS data, Weld County GIS data,

Firestone and the Colorado Front Range Legacy Trail

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Colorado State Trails Program mapping for the Colorado Front
Range Trail, the trail section in Daconoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2005 Comprehensive Land
Use Plan, Dacono Parks, Trails and Recreation Master Plan, and the
Firestone Parks and Trails Master Plan.
Exploring Possibilities on the Ground
Using the newly compiled map, the group began to identify trail
alignment possibilities. Field work was conducted to explore
opportunities on the ground. The group also used satellite imaging
to increase understanding of existing conditions and possible
alignments. Opportunities and challenges began to emerge and shape
the selection of alternative trail alignment possibilities.
In the Public Eye
Throughout this process, the group kept the project and process in
the pubic eye by opening meetings to public participation; delivering
a series of presentations to various councils, boards, commissions and
community groups; distributing a project newsletter and displaying
project information at community events.
Identifying alternatives
As project support mounted and information was gathered, the group
began to identify several trail alignment options within the identified
project area. Those alternatives are outlined in section 7 of this
document. The group then developed a set of criteria to help evaluate
possibilities and determine which of the identified potential alignments
were the preferred alignments. Criteria can be found on page 7-1.
Presenting Possibilities
Once preferred alignments were identified, the group hosted a public
open house to share the findings with trail advocates, landowners, and
other stakeholders. Feedback from the public at the open house was
overwhelmingly positive. Comments from the open house can be
found in Appendix A.

52-85 Trail & the Colorado Front Range Trail

3

The 52-85 Trail Project
The 52-85 Trail Project is a 47-mile section of the Colorado Front Range
Trail (CFRT) which runs north to south through much of Colorado.
Some of the CFRT sections have already been built, but much of it is
simply a proposed trail corridor. It is the responsibility of individual
communities to determine the exact alignment though their area.
This plan is supported by local and state government, incorporates
the area’s unique resources, and is buildable and sustainable within
the resources of the cooperating entities.
Colorado Front Range Trail
In 2002, Colorado State Parks began the ambitious project of
developing the CFRT: a multipurpose trail corridor from New Mexico
to Wyoming along Colorado’s Front Range. The goal for the CFRT is
to connect existing and planned trail systems with new trail corridors
and create linkages with Colorado’s growing population centers. The
CFRT will link diverse communities, scenic landscapes, points of
interest, parks and open space, and other recreation attractions. The
CFRT will be a unique legacy that will enrich Colorado’s tourism and
recreation resources, heritage, and health.

Close-up of 52-85 Trail Communities and Study Area

Partners are working together at the local, regional, and state level to
plan, fund, develop and promote the CFRT in their communities.
The 52-85 Trail Project is a unique and exemplary model of regional
scale planning and collaboration.
The 52-85 Trail has been identified in the 2007 Colorado Front Range
Trail Comprehensive Implementation Plan* as one of the essential missing
links in the CFRT and as a priority for construction and funding.
Connecting existing trails is the most critical criteria for prioritizing trail
segments. The 52-85 Trail connects pieces of the CFRT that are already
in place in Adams County and northern Weld County.
*The implementation plan can be found at http://parks.state.co.us/Trails/ColoradoFrontRangeTrail/ImplementationPlan/

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52-85 Trail Project Study Area

4

Overview
The project study area is designed to focus on the Colorado Front
Range Trail which follows the Platte River north to Fort Lupton then
west to Dacono then north to the St. Vrain River and Trail System.
The 52-85 Trail also includes a segment of the St. Vrain Legacy Trail
from the St. Vrain State Park south through Dacono. It then drops
south and west from Dacono to Erie. The Firestone to Dacono
segment is where these two trails overlap.
Study Area
The 52-85 Trail Study Area covers approximately 250 square miles
in southwestern Weld County and northern Adams County. The
southern boundary is at the Adams County Fairgrounds and includes
Barr Lake State Park. The northern boundary connects the trail to
the St. Vrain River and State Park system. This project will connect
these state parks with this segment of the Colorado Front Range
Trail. East, the study area is bounded by roughly State Highway 85
and I-25 to the west. A more defined study area is illustrated in the
map to the right and follows the CFRT through this study area.
This area lies just north of the
52-85 Planning Area:
metropolitan Denver area and east
•Adams County
of the I-25 corridor.
•Barr Lake State Park

Topography, Vegetation, and Land Use
The topography of the area is gently rolling benchlands and uplands.
Much of the area is covered by thick alluvial deposits with few if any
areas of exposed bedrock. Many irrigation ditches cross the landscape
and wetlands dot the area. The area ultimately drains to the South
Platte River, which runs through the site.
Existing vegetation is predominately agriculture related and includes
vegetable crops, other irrigated crops, fallow fields, and non-irrigated
pasture and forage land. Native cottonwoods and willows follow the
waterways including irrigation ditches, creeks and rivers. Introduced
(planted) trees and ornamental shrubs are a conspicuous part of
the landscape at existing rural residences and in urbanizing areas.
Wildflower displays are abundant in the spring and fall.
The areas through which the trails will run consist of both agricultural
and rapidly urbanizing land.

Many people are drawn to the 52-85 Trail Project area for the
purpose of viewing wildlife. Educating people about our state’s
abundant wildlife and allowing opportunities to enjoy it is an
important part of the trail experience. Environmental education
can become a key component of the future of this trail corridor.
Thoughtfully designed trails allow for positive interaction and inspire
users to value wildlife.
During more detailed trail segment planning, the Colorado Division
of Wildlife shall be contacted to determine if any threatened and
endangered species such as Preble’s Meadow Jumping Mouse, or
species of special concern such as the Ferruginous Hawk, could be
present in the trail area and work with a biologist to determine site
specific species. Specific trail location should be designed to avoid
sensitive wildlife areas where possible and mitigate impacts where
avoidance is not possible.

5 2 Trail
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Rapid Regional Growth, Land Use and
Development Patterns
Growth statistics demonstrate the urgency for trails, parks and open
space planning in the southwestern Weld County and northern
Adams County area (See Appendix D). The trail alignments in the
52-85 Trail Project study area present great opportunities for the
participating counties and communities.
It is important for the participating counties and communities to
incorporate these alignments into their master planning processes.
For example, the preferred alignment between Fort Lupton and
Dacono is entirely within both communitiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; planning areas, but
also within unincorporated Weld County. All three of those entities
are encouraged to place the trail alignment into their corresponding
master plans (Comprehensive Land Use Plan, Parks Master Plan,
Trails Master Plan, Open Space Master Plan). Additionally, those
entities should then work together to ensure future development

includes this important recreational feature into the subdivision
plats, landscape plans and site plans. Ideas for local policies and
regulatory measures that could aid in getting trails on the ground
begin on page 14-3 of this document.
More and more, developers and landowners are recognizing the
importance of recreational amenities within their own development
or property, and also within their community or county. By
connecting neighborhood trails, community and regional trails,
users will have the opportunity to experience a variety of trail
networks.

Frederick Neighborhood Trail

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The Colorado Front Range Trail serves over 80% of Colorado’s population and
runs through some of the most rapidly growing communities in the state. The
52-85 Trail will serve Weld and Adams Counties, which are number 1 and number
4 on the list of rapidly growing counties. The table below illustrates the projected
population growth of the counties served by the CFRT.
County Population Projections
COUNTY
2005
2015
Weld
Custer
Douglas
Adams
Larimer
El Paso
Las Animas
Pueblo
Huerfano
Broomfield
Arapahoe
Boulder
Jefferson
Denver
COUNTY TOTAL
COLORADO

An active living community is designed to provide opportunities for people
of all ages and abilities to engage in routine daily physical activity. Local
leadership in such a community embraces diverse policies and programs that
support active living including encouraging development of close-to-home
trails like the 52-85 Trail.
Trails and Public Health
Communities that incorporate trails into the built environment encourage people to be more physically active, thus improving health by
lowering risk for health conditions such as obesity, diabetes and heart
disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports
that despite the known benefits of physical activity, over two-thirds of
American adults don’t get enough physical activity to provide these
health benefits, and nearly 25% have reported no leisure time physical
activity. Walking is one of the easiest, least expensive and most widely
available ways to reap meaningful health benefits. One of the CDC’s
recommendations to encourage Americans to be physically active is to
promote the development of trails and greenways that are pleasant, safe
and close-to-home, connecting neighborhoods with schools, shopping
and workplaces.

5 2 Trail
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Local leaders can create opportunities for physical activity and
healthy lifestyles. The 52-85 communities and counties have the
unique ability to collaborate to promote issues and support policies
that create environments in which children and their families can
lead healthy and active lives.
Steps to a Healthier Weld County
Weld County is one of 40 communities in 7 states that is receiving
federal funds through the Steps to a Healthier US Initiative.
Through Steps to a Healthier Weld County, the Weld County
Department of Health and Environment focuses on three related
risk factors — physical inactivity, poor nutrition, and tobacco use.
The Steps program encourages people to get physically active and to
recognize that small changes in their lifestyle can produce dramatic
results over time including living longer and healthier lives. The 5285 Trail will be a great venue for southern Weld County residents to
achieve these goals.
PROBLEM
Diabetes
Obesity
No leisure

WELD COUNTY
5.8%
24.1%
22.7%

STATE
4.8%
17.8%
17.3%

Weld County and Colorado 2005 statistics taken from the Behavioral Risk Factor
Surveillance System:

Residents Get Active in Southern Weld County

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Physical Activity: A Critical Element of Good Health*
Trails for Health is a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC) initiative to help Americans of all ages achieve the health
benefits of physical activity by increasing opportunities for physical
activity and helping to make it an integral part of community life.
Trails for Health supports the Department of Health and Human
Services’ Steps to a Healthier US initiative, which promotes behavior
changes and encourages healthier lifestyle choices to help advance
the President’s goal of building a stronger, healthier nation.

The significant benefits of physical activity include helping to:
•

Control weight.

•

Control high blood pressure.

•

Reduce risk for type 2 diabetes, heart attack, and colon cancer.

•

Reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

•

Reduce arthritis pain and disability.

•

Prevent osteoporosis and falls.

Trails: A Scientifically Proven Asset*
Scientific evidence from the Guide to Community Preventive Services
shows that providing access to places for physical activity, such as
trails, increases the level of physical activity in a community. Trails can
provide a wide variety of opportunities for being physically active:
•

Walking, jogging, running, and hiking.

•

Rollerblading/in-line skating.

•

Wheelchair recreation.

•

Bicycling.

•

Cross-county skiing and snowshoeing.

•

Fishing.

•

Hunting.

•

Horseback riding.

* These sections were taken from Trails for Health http://atfiles.org/files/pdf/TrailsHealth.pdf

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“Hitting the nation’s many trails
and pathways is a great way for all
Americans to have fun and, at the same
time, get some valuable exercise.”
- Julie L. Gerberding, MD, MPH
Director, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Successful Paths To More Active
and Healthy 52-85 Communities
•

Convene a broad group of stakeholders to work to implement
the 52-85 Trail Plan.

The 52-85 Trail communities are unique and vibrant. Trail users will
find many opportunities for interesting side trips:
Brighton
• Brighton, a City of over 32,500 residents (January 2008), offers a
unique small town atmosphere and rich cultural and historic roots.
Incorporated in 1887 as an agricultural center, Brighton is one of
Colorado’s original cities with a traditional urban center and street
grid. Located twenty miles from downtown Denver, Brighton is the
southern portion of the 52-85 Trail section of the CFRT. Brighton is a
hub of the rapidly growing Northeast Metro Area.
• Brighton sits at the heart of an expansive, diverse Great Plains
landscape. In addition to the historic pattern of semi-arid and
irrigated agriculture, the area includes expansive floodplains, gravel
mines, several large lakes, canals and riparian forest stands. The
historic role of Brighton as an agricultural center with canneries and
farming support services adds a special and unique character to the
area. Rapidly expanding residential and commercial development
is quickly changing this
landscape. Yet, Brighton
is proud of its heritage
and continues to maintain
the historic qualities of
its downtown and the
community as a whole.
•

Downtown Brighton

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Historic downtown, less
than ¼ mile from the South
Platte River (the major
topographical feature) and the
52-85 Trail, includes a City
Hall that is over 100 years
old, an 1886 Church, and
many businesses along Main

52-85 Trail Master plan

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8 5 Project

Street that are a century old. Sculptures and wayfaring signs along the
trail, in downtown and through the City also highlight the community.
Brighton is a community of trail users – the City of Brighton maintains
over 30 miles of trail as of the printing of this Master Plan.
• The panoramic views from each trail are as unique as the City itself. In
some areas of Brighton, a trail user can look west and watch a sunset that
stretches from Pikes Peak near Colorado Springs on the south to Longs
Peak in Rocky Mountain National Park on the north. In other locations
a trail may travel past sculptures, parks, and businesses. And then there is
the 52-85 Trail section of the CFRT that is gracefully aligned adjacent to
the tree-lined South Platte River.
• In the Brighton area, trail users will find a vast array of historic,
cultural, and nature-related opportunities in addition to great dining,
lodging, and shopping in the community.
Fort Lupton
• Pearson Park, named for Fort Lupton’s Dr. E. R. Pearson for more
than half a century of community service, is a regional park containing
a major green belt area and wetlands and is home to a 4 field baseball/
softball complex. A trail along the South Platte River exists and heads
north toward the Fort Lupton Historic Park.
• Fort Lupton Historic Park is
a wonderful park located 1.25
miles north of Pearson Park.
This area is full of mature
shade trees and plenty of
opportunity to picnic or play
and to explore the building
of the replica Fort Lupton.
This park also contains other
historic buildings and a
camping area.

Fort Lupton Historic Museum

• Downtown Fort Lupton is within ½ mile of Pearson Park. Along the
way, one encounters the Fort Lupton Historic Museum housed in the
original Fort Lupton Public Library. Downtown provides many dining
opportunities.
• Fort Lupton Recreation Center and Community Park provides many
opportunities including swimming, fitness, indoor sports, skate
boarding, playgrounds and a loop trail.
Dacono
• Clem DuFour Park, named after a former Mayor, is the City’s main
community park. Ten acres in size and adjacent to the original part of
the City, the park will be connected into the City’s trail network. The
park is very well maintained and, in 2005, almost all of the equipment
was updated. The park also has a ball field that receives heavy use in
the spring and summer.
• At 7.5 acres, the Dacono BMX track, adjacent to Clem DuFour Park,
adjacent to Clem DuFour park regularly hosts State and National
finals. The Carbon Valley Recreation District operates the track and
has added improvements each year to enhance the experience for both
racers and spectators.

• Proposed community parks are located in many of our major
residential developments. These community parks serve surrounding
neighborhoods and connect to the proposed trail network. This
proximity ensures walkable options to City attractions such as open
space corridors, schools and the proposed City Center.
• There are three regional parks located in the City’s planning area.
The first is located just west of Colorado Blvd. (WCR 13) and
is a shared facility with a proposed high school. Playfields and
supporting facilities can be shared between the high school and the
adjacent regional park for economy of use to the school district and
the park system. The second regional park is proposed at Graden
Blvd. (WCR 10) and Holly Street (WCR 15). This location takes
advantage of the Little Dry Creek drainage, proposed trail system
and its associated floodplain/open space. This regional park is
centrally located in the Dacono planning area and is accessible to
a 360-degree service area. This park location has the advantage of
being on Little Dry Creek open space and poses little conflict to
surrounding homes with respect to nighttime ball field lighting. The
third regional park is proposed at Summit Blvd. (WCR 8) and WCR
19. This park location is next to irrigation ponds that are scenic and
provide habitat. Multiple trails are proposed through this portion of
the planning area and tie into the larger trail network proposed in
Dacono.
Frederick
• Centennial Park, named for Frederick’s centennial in 2007, is a
regional park, containing a major detention area and wetlands
on one end, and large soccer fields, a picnic and play area and an
amphitheater on the other. Pathways wind throughout the park and
educational signs give visitors the opportunity to learn about their
surroundings including butterfly gardening, xeriscape principles and
bats!

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• James Crist Park is a wonderful park full of mature shade trees and
plenty of opportunity to picnic or play. This park also contains the
Historic City Hall, museum and Miners’ Memorial.
• Downtown Frederick is just off the trail and just steps from James
Crist Park. Downtown provides opportunities to stop and refresh
yourself with food and drink or even soothe tired muscles with a
relaxing massage.
• Frederick Recreation Area at
Milavec Lake provides a variety
of opportunities including
fishing and a lake loop trail.
Your four-legged friends are
welcome to run “off-leash” at
Canine Corral Dog Park in the
Recreation Area.

James Crist Park

• Bella Rosa Municipal Golf Course, right next to the Frederick Recreation
Area, offers a 9-hole challenge and tournament-quality greens.
Firestone
• Trail users will experience breathtaking views of Longs Peak and
panoramic views of the Rockies from key trail locations. In addition to
the trail, Firestone is proud to offer 12 developed parks with at least 28
parks and greenways in the Community Master Plan.
• Gateway Park, located on the southwest side of Firestone, is literally the
“gateway” to Firestone’s old-town area. The trail passes directly through
this park with a parking lot that accommodates trail users.
• Hart Park has a baseball-softball diamond and a multi-use field
that is used mostly for soccer. There is also a restroom facility and
pavilion at this park.

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• Central Park, a 272-acre park site, is located directly adjacent to
the Firestone Trail, and is home to the new Weld Regional Library,
opening in 2008. The Final Development plan is in place and the
park will eventually house Firestone’s Municipal Center, Community
and Cultural Center, Recreation Center, Planetarium and Museum,
and potentially a school. A trail will run through the park to
accommodate walkers, runners, cyclists, and recreation enthusiasts.
• Harney Park, a Great Outdoors Colorado funded project, is located
directly east of the Firestone Trail. This park contains 4 pavilions,
tot-lot and youth playgrounds, climbing boulders, soft-surface under
all play units, a basketball court and multi-use field with a trail
surrounding it, and wavy walk for bikes and skates, and drinking
fountain. A new restroom facility in Harney Park was recently
installed directly off of the Firestone Trail, and is ADA accessible. A
parking lot at Harney Park could be considered a trail head, as the trail
runs though the park and connects with the Firestone Trail.
• Saddleback Golf
Club is located
directly north of
Firestone Town
Hall and is proud
to be recognized as
a premier location
on the Front Range.
Saddleback boasts
being the host of
the 2007 Colorado
Open, elevating the
quality of play to competitive caliber.
•

Saddleback Golf Course in Firestone

St. Vrain State Park, located on the west side of I-25 off of Highway
119 (Firestone Boulevard), was recently annexed into the Town of

Firestone’s jurisdiction. This park is a popular destination for regional
and national tourists, offering 40 campsites in two campgrounds that
are mostly accessible to those who are physically challenged. The
park boasts 80 acres of water, with three fully accessible fishing piers,
and 50 acres of recreational land. The ponds (Pelican Pond, Mallard
Pond, and Sandpiper Pond) at the park contain bluegill, perch,
pumpkinseed, largemouth bass, channel catfish, crappie and rainbow
trout. Raptors such as owls, eagles, red-tailed hawks, waterfowl and
songbirds are among 31 bird species that live at the park year round.
The park features a rookery that houses Great Blue Heron, Great
White Heron, egrets, ducks, geese, and osprey. St. Vrain State Park
was voted “One of America’s Top 10 Bird Watching Spots” in Outdoor
Recreation Magazine. Bobcat, coyotes, deer, rabbits, reptiles and other
wildlife can sometimes be seen at the park, and a ¼ mile nature trail is
available for visitors. The Firestone Trail will eventually link with St.
Vrain State Park via an underpass at the I-25 interchange.
http://parks.state.co.us/Parks/StVrain/

•

Settlers Park is located on the north end of Firestone in Oak Meadows
subdivision. Settlers Park offers a restroom facility, several pavilions,
tennis courts, a baseball-softball field, a skate-park, a dog park, and a
large multi-use field.

•

Mountain Shadows Park is on the northwest side of Mountain Shadows
subdivision. The Firestone trail runs directly through the site, which has a
large multi-use open space with established, irrigated turf.

•

•

Booth Farms Park is located in the Booth Farms subdivision on the
west side of Colorado Boulevard (Weld County Road 13). A trail
connection leading through the park was installed in 2007.

•

Sagebrush Park is located on the east side of Coal Ridge Middle
School in the Sagebrush subdivision and offers a large multi-use
field, a basketball court, and a trail surrounding the park. A trail
connection running by the school links directly to the Firestone Trail.

The Firestone Trail with a View South East Toward Fort Lupton

Aisiks Meadow Dog park, located on the east side of St. Vrain Ranch
subdivision, is connected to the Firestone trail via a pedestrian
trail installed by the subdivision developer. The park has a larger,
fenced park area with pavilion, and a separate small dog park that
can be utilized when the larger park is closed for vegetation reestablishment. The drinking fountain at the park can accommodate
both people and dogs.

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52-85 Trail Master plan

7

52-85 Trail Segment Alignments

A number of trail alignments were investigated by the 52-85 Trail
Working Group and presented at public meetings and other gatherings.
In that process, multiple alignments were identified that can be
incorporated into local recreation planning efforts. The alignment for
the 52-85 Trail essentially follows the initial Colorado Front Range Trail
corridor but sets some more specific conditions about where the trail
can be located to make best use of existing and proposed land uses and
roadway alignments.
Criteria
A number of alternative alignments were considered in the planning
process. Preferred alternatives were selected from the various
alignment possibilities based on the following criteria.

•

Cost Effectiveness - the ability to utilize existing overpass or
underpass structures or existing utility corridors was found to be a
desirable criteria.

•

Landowner Willingness - since some segments of the trail will follow
private property lines, it was felt that landowner support was an
important criteria for trail alignment selection.

•

Scenic Aspects - the unique character of the Platte River basin and
expansive views of the front range were important to the selection of
the trail corridor alignments.

•

Potential Economic Benefits - trail usage can spur further residential
and commercial development that will benefit local businesses,
communities and neighborhoods.

Criteria Matrix for segments 4 & 5. The 52-85 Trail Working Group used matrixes like this to
evaluate alternative trail alignments and rated each criterium for each alternative as positive
(+), negative (-), or neutral (○).

Photos and maps were used to examine potential trail alignments like this
corridor between Fort Lupton and Dacono.

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52-85 Trail Segments

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Wattenburg

Trail segment alignments are presented from Segment 1 at the south end of the corridor
at the Adams County Fairgrounds then continuing north to the Firestone to St. Vrain State
Park connection in Segment 7.

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Segment 1, Brighton South

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Existing Conditions
• Segment 1 travels from the Adams County Fairgrounds on the south to
State Highway 7 and Brighton’s Veterans Park on the north.

1

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52-85 Trail Master plan

•

The trail is presently located throughout the Adams County
Fairgrounds. The Fairgrounds contain a trailhead, parking, restrooms,
and more. The County has planned for and is constructing the trail
from the Fairgrounds to under the E-470 Highway. The City of
Brighton has approved plans to continue the trail north. The land
from E-470 along the east side of the river to the South Platte River
Trailhead falls within the City’s developing 400+ acre Ken Mitchell
Lakes Open Space and Park and present and future city and county
easements. Presently, ¼ mile of concrete trail lies within the northeast
section of Mitchell Lakes.

•

Mitchell Lakes will be developed over the next several years. Presently it
contains a trailhead, parking lot, basketball court, playground, shelters,
picnic tables, barbecue grills, benches, scenic views, bird/wildlife viewing
area, and connects the 52-85 Trail to the neighborhood.

•

North of Mitchell Lakes
is a ¼ mile section of
future trail. The area
will be mined of gravel
and then will be turned
over to the City for a
trail to connect Mitchell
Lakes on the south to
the South Platte River
Trailhead (at Southern
Future 52-85 Trail Location in Brighton Looking North From
E-470 Bridge Along South Platte River
Street) on the north.
Brighton presently owns and maintains a concrete trail from the South
Platte River Trailhead on the south to Veterans Park on the north. This
section of trail also travels adjacent to Colorado Park and underneath
State Highway 7 before reaching the Veterans Park Trailhead.

Opportunities
• Connectivity of the 52-85 Trail section of the Colorado Front Range
Trail (CFRT) to the Adams County section of trail that connects to the
City of Denver trail system that is a part of the CFRT.
•

Link Brighton’s river side parks, trails, open space, and nature area.

•

Connect to Brighton historic and vibrant downtown. In Brighton trail
users will find great dining (fast food, sports bars, family, casual, and fine
restaurants), lodging (hotels within ¼ mile of trail), and shopping only
minutes from the trail. Downtown also provides: cultural opportunities,
sculptures, historic buildings (including the 1886 Church, Historic
Armory Performing Arts Building and 100+ year old City Hall), and
parks including Malcolm Park.

•

Brighton has an approved Master Plan for the Ken Mitchell Lakes Open
Space and Park. Presently eight acres are open to public – with additional
trail sections, park, and open space opening by 2010. The Master Plan
calls for construction of a boardwalk, accessible restrooms, a larger trailhead
parking lot, restroom, shelters, drinking fountains, fishing pier, a sunning
beach, playground, off-leash dog park, nature/bird/wildlife preserve, and
other recreational amenities and opportunities.

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52-85 Trail Master plan

•

The South Platte River Trailhead has the opportunity to connect
downtown Brighton to the 52-85 section of CFRT.

Linking the 52-85 Trail to Barr Lake State Park through the Brighton
trail system.

•

Two additional trailheads located along the 52-85 Trail in Brighton.

Alternatives
• None – the City of Brighton has an approved Trails and Greenways
Master Plan and Segment 1 is addressed within the plan.
Preferred Route
• The present and future trail travels along the east side of the South
Platte River within Brighton and on the west side of the river within
Adams County Fairgrounds.
Considerations
• The time frame when Segment 1 will be open for use by the general
public is due to the gravel mining, obtaining easements, and funding
by the City and grants for trail construction.

Trail users in Brighton

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Segment 2, Brighton North

5 2 Trail
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Existing Conditions
• Segment 2 travels from Brighton’s Veterans Park on the south
to Weld County Road (WCR) 6 on the north. Trail is located
south of Veterans Park (south end of Segment 2) and travels
under State Highway 7 along the South Platte River.
Wattenburg

•

Trailhead is located at Veterans Park. Wayfaring, history, and
point-of-interest signs are located at the Veterans Park trailhead.
Accessible restroom facilities, parking lot, shelter, playground,
open bluegrass turf are located in Veterans Park. Morgan Smith
Nature Area is adjacent and north of Veterans Park and accessible
by crusher fines trail. Informative signs explain the wildlife that
is present in the nature area.

•

No existing trail connects Veterans Park to WCR 6.

Opportunities
• Connect to the City of Brighton, river side parks, other trails,
open space, and nature area.

2

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52-85 Trail Master plan

•

Connect to City of Brighton historic and vibrant downtown,
historic buildings including the 1886 Church and 100+ year
old City Hall, cultural opportunities, and parks with sculptures.
Downtown also provides dining and shopping.

•

Connect to the Brighton Recreation Center and other public
and private recreational opportunities.

•

Construction of two additional trailheads within this Segment 2.

Alternatives
• None – the 52-85 Trail section of the Colorado Front Range
(CFRT) is planned to be adjacent to the South Platte River, City
open space, and City parks in this segment. Segment 2 is also
addressed within the Brighton Trails and Greenways Master Plan.
Preferred Route
• The trail will travel along the east side of the South Platte River
from Veterans Park to Baseline Road (WCR 2). From WCR 2
north to WCR 6, no determination of trail alignment has been
approved other than the alignment must be near the river.
Considerations
• Acquisition of easements for the trail corridor in this segment
or ownership of the land in this segment, and the potential
construction of the trail by developers of the area.
•

The time frame as to when the trail in Segment 2 will be open for
use by the general public due to the gravel mining, farming, and
commercial endeavors in this area.

•

Safe crossing at County Roads and Highways.

Trail in Brighton near Veteran’s Park

South Platte River Valley between Brighton and Fort Lupton

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Segment 3, Brighton to Fort Lupton

5 2 Trail
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Existing Conditions:
• Segment 3 travels from Weld County Road (WCR) 6 on the
south to State Highway 52 and Fort Lupton’s Pearson Park on
the north. There are no existing trail conditions at this time.
Opportunities:
• Visual tree lined river corridor moving north to south with views
of the mountains to the west and the plains to the east.

Preferred Route
• To run along the South Platte River through the open space that
will be created from WCR 6 to State Highway 52 at Pearson
Park in Fort Lupton that will be completed through the Holton
Lakes Project.

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Considerations
• Safe crossing south across State Highway 52 to Pearson Park.
•

If an alternative trail alignment is used, then safety must be
addressed.

•

Acquisition of easements for the trail corridor in this segment or
ownership of the land in this segment.

•

A loop trail from WCR 6 north along WCR 23 to Pearson Park
and then south along the South Platte River to WCR 6.

•

The time frame as to when the trail in Segment 3 will be open for
use by the general public due to the gravel mining, farming, and
commercial use in this area.

South Platte River between Brighton and Fort Lupton

Trails in reclaimed gravel mining areas are a possibility in Fort Lupton

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52-85 Trail Master plan

Segment 4, Fort Lupton
Existing Conditions:
• The 52-85 Trail is in its beginning phases in Fort Lupton.
Construction of other areas of the trail will continue over the next few
years. The Pearson Park Pedestrian Bridge Project will be completed
over the South Platte River in 2008. A trail runs north out of the
Pearson Park along the River for approximately ½ mile. Beautiful
views of the Front Range and South Platte River Valley exist.

5 2 Trail
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Preferred Route
• Run along the WCR 12 Overhead Power Line ROW and
through the Holton Lakes Project to Pearson Park to the East
and WCR 19 to the West.

Opportunities:
• Establishment of major trail head at
Pearson Park.
• Connect to the City of Fort Lupton
downtown.
• Connect to Fort Lupton amenities
including the Fort Lupton Museum,
Koshio Park, Railroad Park and
Community/Recreation Center.
• Connect to Coyote Creek Golf
Course.
• Build additional trail connectivity
to the Weld County RE-8 School
District.
• Allows passage over the South Platte
River and crossing of Highway 52.
• The Fort Lupton Parks and
Recreation Board and the Senior
Citizen Advisory Board are supportive
of all connections and improvements.

Segment 5, Dacono to Frederick
Existing Conditions
• The 52-85 Trail, also known as the St. Vrain Legacy Trail
through Frederick, is nearly complete in Frederick. As of the end
of 2007, construction of concrete trail remains to be completed
at the First Street crossing (approx. 200 feet) and between Eighth
Street and Highway 52 (approx. ½ mile). However, it is possible
to travel across both incomplete areas on natural surface.
•

Construction of both areas is anticipated in 2007. The segment
between Eighth Street and Highway 52 will include a parking lot
and trailhead as well as concrete trail.

• The proposed 52-85 Trail segment in this
area trail begins at Weld County Road 19 and
heads west through Dacono to approximately
Colorado Boulevard (WCR 13) where the trail
turns north and heads to Frederick along the St.
Vrain Valley Legacy Trail. Trail crosses Highway
52 and Colorado Boulevard, which should be
grade separated crossings. The segment ends at
approximately WCR 16.
•

The 52-85 Trail connection from Fort Lupton,
west into Dacono will connect to the Little
Dry Creek trail and then into the rest of the
trail network, including the Legacy Trail. In
early 2007 Dacono purchased the section
of abandoned Union Pacific railroad bed
from SH 52 extending south-southwest 1¼
miles. This will be the first section of Legacy
Trail constructed in Dacono. In the spring of
2008, Weld County will begin intersection
improvements at SH 52 and Colorado Blvd.
(WCR 13) in conjunction with re-aligning and

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improving the boulevard south of SH 52 to Summit Boulevard
(WCR 8). The project is expected to be completed in the fall
of 2008. After the intersection improvements are completed,
construction of concrete trail can begin as early as late 2008.
•

Dacono is also working on a Parks, Trails and Recreation Master
Plan that is was adopted in the spring of 2008. The document
will include standards, anticipated costs and a prioritization plan
for the parks, trails and outdoor recreation amenities throughout
the City’s planning area. The funding to accomplish the major

5

components identified in the plan will be accomplished primarily
with impact fee money, which is a component of a residential
building permit cost. Projects will be phased and completed as
impact fees are accumulated.
Opportunities
• Wetland and water crossing at Little Dry Creek allow for
interpretation and wildlife viewing.
•

A trailhead will be constructed near the intersection of Colorado
Boulevard (WCR 13) and Highway 52, connecting to Frederick’s
Centennial Park, a regional park with picnic grounds, play
grounds, play fields, wetlands and interpretive signs.

Existing Conditions
• Begins at WCR 16 and heads north through Frederick and
Firestone. This trail segment is complete and consists of 8-foot wide
and 10-foot wide concrete with benches, trees, and litter receptacles.
Views to the Front Range are excellent. This trail is also known as
the St. Vrain Valley Legacy Trail and the Firestone Trail.
Opportunities
• Connect to Frederick’s downtown.

6

•

Connect to Frederick’s amenities including the Milavec Reservoir
at Frederick Recreation Area and the Bella Rosa Golf Course.

•

Connect to Firestone’s downtown and parks; construct a
comprehensive unified trail network in Firestone based upon
Firestone’s Parks and Trails Master Plan.

The Firestone Parks and Trails advisory is supportive of all
connections and improvements.

Alternatives
• Trail is complete, yet connections and corridors may still be added.
Preferred Route
• Trail is complete. Citizens surveyed have indicated they would
like the connection to St. Vrain State Park completed along
Firestone Blvd. (Hwy. 119).
Considerations
• Safe crossings and connections at commercial intersections and
to Hart Park and neighborhood parks.

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52-85 Trail through Firestone’s Harney Park

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Downtown Frederick accessible from 52-85 Trail

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52-85 Trail Master plan

Segment 7, Firestone to St. Vrain
Existing Conditions
• The Firestone Trail, a major connection of the St. Vrain
Valley Legacy Trail begins at Weld County Road 18 and heads
northeast to Highway 66.
• The Oak Meadows subdivision connection is under construction
(on the west side of the Rails to Trails Firestone Trail corridor).
The Firestone Trail runs along the historic route of the Union
Pacific Railroad (Dent Branch).

may be available for the trail connection to run under I-25 to
Longmont, through St. Vrain State Park, south under Highway
119 (Firestone Blvd.), through a box culvert and along the St.
Vrain River to Sandstone Ranch Regional Park in Longmont.
•

Connect to all marketplaces, pedestrian malls and all parks;
construct a comprehensive unified trail network in Firestone,
based upon Firestone’s Parks and Trails Master Plan.

• The trail connection from Mountain
Shadows subdivision on the west side of
WCR 13 (Colorado Boulevard) to St. Vrain
State Park is to be completed by “The
Shores” development in the near future.
• Gateway and Harney Parks serve as
trailheads. There is a restroom installed at
Harney Park.
• This trail is also known as the St. Vrain
Valley Legacy Trail and the Firestone Trail.
Opportunities
• Trailheads will be constructed near
the intersection of WCR 13/Colorado
Boulevard and WCR 22 adjacent to the
Central Park site.
• There is a proposed trail connection
from Neighbors Point subdivision to the
Firestone Trail that will be installed by the
developer.
• Due to the proximity of St. Vrain State Park
to The Shores development, state funding
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7

•

The Firestone Parks and Trails Advisory Board is supportive of
most connections and improvements.

•

Panoramic views of the Front Range are spectacular from Central
Park and Booth Farms subdivisions.

•

•

The State funded “Safe Routes to School” educational (noninfrastructure) and construction (infrastructure) programs are
being considered as another alternative funding source for the
Firestone Trail, neighborhood corridors, and connections.
Trail signage and mile markers are variable. Both wooden and
metal sign materials were used during installation. Standardization
is pending Parks and Trails Advisory Board review. Colorado Front
Range Trail signage has been installed.

Alternatives
• Trail alignments within the northern segment from WCR 24 to
St. Vrain State Park will depend on future development (gravel
pit operations and closeout), landowners, and State funding.
•

Other connections and corridors may still be added. See the
updated Firestone Public Park and Trail System map available
from the Town of Firestone. www.ci.firestone.co.us

Firetone Trail and Harney Park
Horses on north side of Firestone Trail looking west

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52-85 Trail Master plan

8 CO Front Range Trail Development Guidelines
In 2003, Colorado State Parks published Colorado Front Range Trail
Guidelines, which was updated in 2007. The document included trail
planning process guidelines, as well as physical guidelines for designing
and building trail segments. The 52-85 Trail Working Group recommends
that communities consult these guidelines when making trail decisions.
Summarized below are the primary physical development guidelines,
adapted from that document. For more detailed information, consult the
full Colorado Front Range Trail Guidelines document, at www.parks.state.
co.us. Go to Programs/Trails Program/Front Range.
I. General Front Range Trail Goals
• Form a spine trail corridor along Colorado’s Front Range that
links communities, points of interest, and state and local parks.
• Create a safe, fun, attractive, continuous, interesting, diverse,
and educational trail.
• Utilize existing and approved proposed trails as the basis for the
corridor.
• Create a fairly direct north – south route.
• Link to other trails; especially major east – west trails along the
corridor.
• Have a separated trail, away from highways and roads, when
possible.
• Strive to protect the sensitive natural, cultural, and scenic
resources when locating the trail.
• Create a trail corridor that enhances eco-heritage tourism along
the Front Range.
• Incorporate alternatives and loops, so the trail can be used as
soon as possible for diverse range of trail uses.
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II. Notifications
• Obtain public input about where the trail should and should
not lead.
• Follow the land-use rules and regulations of the jurisdiction
through which the trail travels.
• Make sure the project has the support of local committees,
boards, and decision-makers.
• Submit a Designation Letter to Colorado State Parks to indicate
the jurisdiction’s intent to construct, manage, and maintain the trail.
•

To make temporary or permanent changes in the trail corridor
alignment through the jurisdiction, follow the notification
process established by the State Trails Program through the
Colorado Front Range Trail Development Council.

III. Alignment and Development Alternatives
Trail User Considerations:
• Types of trail uses (pedestrian, bicycle, equestrian, motorized)
will be determined by the jurisdiction through which the trail
passes. Choice of uses should take into account:
º Compatibility among trail use types.
º Compatibility with CFRT trail uses in adjoining jurisdictions.
º Public preferences.
º Compatibility with adjoining land uses.
º Suitability for the terrain and trail surface.
• Incorporate major points of interest (scenic, recreational,
commercial, historic, and cultural).

the location. Use design standards that have been used successfully
by other jurisdictions. Generally, trails in urban areas will be more
developed than those in rural areas. The following table summarizes
typical trail development standards:
Recommended Trail Development Standards
Urban

Sub-Urban

Rural*

10-12 feet

8 feet

8 feet †

Maximum Grade

5%

5%

8.33% up to 200 feet

Maximum Cross
Slope

3%

5%

5%

• Acquire fee title or easement interests from willing land owners only.

Designed to accommodate the needs of all populations,
compatible with federal guidelines or rules adopted in
compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)..

Environmental

Avoid environmentally sensitive areas. Mitigate if necessary to
comply with local, state and federal rules and regulations.

Signage

Use CFRT signage standards, compatible with local
standards.

º Visual resource protection.
º Effects on cultural and historic resources.
IV. Minimum CFRT Trail Development Standards
Jurisdictions should follow generally accepted trail development
standards. Standards may vary depending on the use of the trail and

▪

Trail Development Considerations
Surface

• Avoid environmental impacts through careful analyses of:

Page 8-2

*ADA standards should be met whenever feasible. For more information on ADA Accessible Guidelines, please review the following: Designing Sidewalks and Trails for Access
Part II or II :Best Practices Design Guide by Beneficial Designs, Inc., September 2001
and Forest Service Trail Accessibility Guidelines FSTAG, May 2006.
† 52-85 Trail Working Group recommends 8 ft. width rather than the 5 ft. recommended
in the CFRT Guidelines.

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*All concrete trails should meet ADA accessibility standards.
** The Colorado State Parks Trails Program recommends that managing authorities abide
by all Federal, State, and Local regulations for the development and maintenance of trails.

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V. Trail Construction
• The construction process should include supervision by the trail
designer or a qualified project manager.
• If contracting construction, solicit bids from contractors who
have performed well on similar projects and check references.
• Volunteers and youth groups should be utilized for construction
on appropriate types of trail projects. Choose accredited
youth corps or other qualified youth organizations, and/or
ensure qualified crew leaders work with volunteer organizations.

Construction on trail in Frederick

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52-85 Trail Development Guidelines

9

This trail system is intended to be a multiuse recreational trail providing
opportunities for a variety of trail users. The primary activities around
which this trail has been planned are: walking, jogging, rollerblading,
cycling and horseback riding. Different trail user groups prefer different
types of trail surface. A variety of trail types may be necessary to
support multiple uses. This section of the 52-85 Trail Master Plan
outlines what some of those trail types are and offers guidelines for the
design of these trails. The following guidelines should be considered in
conjunction with the CFRT Development Guidelines in the previous
section. When 52-85 communities have their own trail development
guidelines, those will supersede the guidelines laid out in this
document. These are some possibilities that should be considered in the
development of the 52-85 Trail:
Hard surface trails (concrete)
The major objectives of trail location are to design a trail that produces
a minimum impact on the land and to nearby landowners, to choose
an alignment that is visually pleasing and provides a variety of views and
experiences, to take advantage of the natural terrain and vegetation, and
to provide a trail that requires minimum maintenance.
Design goals/concepts
• The alignment should follow the contours of the land and
natural drainage patterns. A trail should not appear to be
carved out of a hillside.
• Trail meanders should appear to have a purpose, not be placed
haphazardly or regularly throughout the segment length.
• Designers should strive to create functional, efficient circulation patterns.
• Site path intersections should be located at natural focal points
and convenient access points.

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• Where hard and soft surface trails both occur along a system,
place the soft surface trail nearer to the water to allow
pedestrians closer contact to the water.
• Integrate subtle, attractive buffers where necessary to protect privacy.
• Occasional rest areas should be located along the trail. Integrate
these with focal points, water features and public areas.
• Provide adequate sight distance for curves.
Design Guidelines
• 10 feet minimum trail width where bicyclists and pedestrians
share the trail.
•

Landscape treatment within 3 feet adjacent to trails must
conform to the following standards:

Subgrade preparations include a compacted roadbase or use on-
site gravel material where approved by an engineer. Overexcavate if unstable sub-soils are encountered and replace with
suitable fill material. Compact all fill areas and remove all top
soil prior to subgrade preparation.

Combined Trails, Narrow Right-of-way
Bicycle, jogging, and equestrian trails can be combined where the
right-of-way is forced into a narrow space. In this case, combined
trails should have a 10 foot minimum width of hard surface trail, and
an 8 foot wide soft surface trail.

Equestrian Trail Clearance
The minimum desirable width for a combined horse and jogging
trail is eight feet. Vertical trail clearance for horse and bicycle trails
should be 10 feet.

8’ minimum
8’ min. verticle
vertical
clearance
clearance

Equestrian and Jogging Trail Surface
Equestrian users and joggers prefer a non-paved, softer surface,
although paved surfaces can be used. Where separate surfacing is
possible, crusher fines should be used if there is a matrix of larger
particles to resist the grinding and kicking motion of horses’ hooves.
Recommended Crusher Fines Characteristics
1. Irregular and angular.
2. Fines should be laid to an average depth of 6 inches.
3. Stones for crusher fines should be as hard as possible. Sandstone
is not generally acceptable while granite is excellent. Fines
bound with limestone provide an even stronger surface.
4.

Horses should be kept off trails with crusher fines where the
trail surface slope exceeds 6%. Have horses use the hard surface
paving for steep sections. Horses should be kept off all
boardwalks. If box culverts are large enough and have clear
sightline to the opposite end, they can be used by equestrians.

Separate Crusher Fines Jogging/Nature Trails
In some areas, the available trail corridor permits a separate crusher
fines jogging and/or nature trail. These trails allow access to points
of interest, rest areas, vistas and wildlife viewing areas. A crusher
fines trail along paved sections in this plan is 3 feet wide and has a
minimum vertical clearance of 8 feet.

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trail width
3’ 3’trail
width

10’ minimum
trail width
10’ min. trail width

Typical separate nature/jogging trail section

Trails Along County Roads
Trails should be separated horizontally from roadways wherever
possible for safety and aesthetics. Along existing county roads, the
trail should be separated from the roadway by a ditch or raised berm
with a minimum 12 foot division. Fences should be set back from
the edge of the trail surface by a minimum of 3 feet.
Private Driveways
Where private driveway crossings occur, two situations are possible:

1. trail users yield to driveway, or

2. driveway users yield to trail users.

The first should be used at busy driveway intersections or where sight
lines or site features decrease trail user’s safety. Where driveways are
less busy, the second can be used. Signage and pavement markings
should be provided to control traffic in each scenario.

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Railroad Crossings
Crossings should be adequately designed for safety and ease of
crossing. A minimum 20 foot level path should be provided on each
side of the tracks so that trail users have an adequate place to stop and
wait while trains pass.
A gradual slope should be provided at the approach to the level
resting area. Grades should be a maximum of 10% on the
approaches. Track crossings should use a compressible flangeway
filler to provide a safe and easy crossing. Filler material should be
approved by the affected railroad.

Underpass width and height
The minimum width of the path in a box culvert should be 10 feet.
Paths beneath bridges should be considered a hazard zone and widened
by 2 - 4 feet, if possible. The minimum vertical clearance in the
underpass is 8 feet with 10 feet being preferred. Warning/rumble strips
should be placed at river edges of the trail for safety and lane markings
should be provided through the approach and underpass. Wing walls
may be necessary at the upstream and downstream ends of underpasses
to keep stream flows off the trail surface.

Crossings should be designed so that they approach all roadways at a
90° angle if possible. A minimum cross angle of 45° is permitted. All
crossings should be signed with appropriate railroad crossings signs.
Additional signs should be provided indicating bicyclists should
dismount. All signing should meet the Manual of Uniform Traffic
Control Devices (MUTCD) Standards.

10’

Typical Underpass Section
12’ min. trailtrail
width width
12’ minimum

20’
levelpath
path
20’ level

Inactive railroad right-of-way cross-section

Trail Underpasses
Wherever possible trail underpasses should be used to cross busy
highways and roads. Underpasses can either be under an existing
bridge or in a specially constructed culvert. An alternate route is
necessary at all underpass crossings to allow for at-grade passage and
access to the roadway.
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Sightlines
Adequate sightlines to the entrance of an underpass are critical
for user safety. Users approaching an underpass should have an
unobstructed view of the center of the entrance from at least 140
feet away. From a point of 60 feet away from the entrance to the
underpass, users should be able to see the center of the path at least
40 feet into the underpass.

Lighting
Lighting is problematic in underpasses. A short underpass will not
need lighting and in a few of the longer ones proposed in this plan
a skylight may be able to be created in the middle of the underpass
as the highway above is, or may be, divided. If lights are necessary,
vandal resistant fixtures should be used and placed at the ends of
underpasses no more than 30 feet from entrances. Interior lights are
discouraged as they tend to be destroyed quickly. Electrical supply
wires should be underground or be placed in conduit painted to
match the underside of the bridge.

Bridge Approaches And Drainage
Where separated crossings occur, access to cross-streets should be
provided. High headwalls should also be provided in these locations
to minimize snow overshoot and debris from snow plows. Culvert
drains may be required at approaches. Drain pans adjacent to trail
surfaces may also be required.

Railings should be free of splinters and provide a
smooth, clear surface.

º

Railings should allow view to the creek from all
heights, yet prevent anyone from falling through.

º

The scale of the bridge should be in keeping with its
surroundings.

• Bridge color should blend with natural environment or tie into
the color scheme of any adjacent development.

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10

Trailheads

Trailheads are some of the most important facilities in the trail system. As
the users first impression of the trail system, the trailhead should be highly
visible and well-maintained. It should provide trail information and be
physically inviting and attractive. Each trailhead is an important place
where users enter the trail system. Guidelines for two basic forms appear
below. Larger versions of these graphics can be found in appendix D.
Major Trailhead
The primary or major trailheads located in the trail corridor serve as
primary access points to the 52-85 Trail system. These trailheads are
intended for high traffic and equestrian access.
This facility would include parking, handicap spaces, a trail map, a
bulletin board, specific user information, benches, trash/recycle bins
and possibly restrooms. Most of the major trailheads in this plan will
also support equestrian uses (trailer parking, tie rail, etc.).
Minor Trailhead
Minor trailheads located in the trail corridor serve as supplemental
access points to the 52-85 Trail system. These trailheads are designed
for low traffic and local pedestrian and/or bicycle access. The trailheads
identified below could be modified to support equestrian uses.

Typical Major Trailhead

A minor trailhead could consist of simple access to the trail from
a spur or at a bridge crossing. It would consist of a small fenced
parking area, trash/recycle bins and route signage. In this plan,
minor trailheads have been designated to support equestrian uses at
some, but not all, of the locations. That figure includes grading, a
gravel parking lot, fencing and minimal site work.
Each trailhead should be designed specifically for its own unique
location. Consistency in trail image will come from the trail sign
system, landscaping and site furnishings such as fencing and plantings.
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Typical Minor Trailhead

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Transfer Points
The term, transfer point, refers to the transition from road to trail
in the travel process. The transfer point should be designed to tie
the site together both visually and functionally. The first step is to
provide a gradual transition from the parking/transfer area to the trail.
A concrete ramp meeting the ADA guidelines should be incorporated
in at least one entry point per trailhead.
Landscaping
A high level of landscaping should be provided at each transfer point.
The landscaping will emphasize the area as a special place and tend
to provide a visual reference for users. Some of the key aspects of the
landscaping will be to provide indigenous trees, shrubs and grasses,
and to incorporate consistent fencing. Use of indigenous plant
materials is preferred to exotic plants. The character of the trailhead
should enhance natural features of the area and reflect the Platte
Valley and Carbon Valley natural character.
Landscaping should be protected after installation from damage by
beavers and other wildlife that can eat the bark or kill trees. A wire
fabric such as chicken wire should be placed around the trunks of all
newly planted trees.

Landscape Along Trail in Firestone

Wherever possible in the layout of trailheads, mature plants and trees
shall be preserved and protected.

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11

Maintenance

User safety is central to all maintenance operations and a maintenance
program must be in place before any trail segments are developed. This
program must address not only the activities that will be undertaken to
maintain a quality trail, but also identify the organizations responsible
for the work. Funding sources need to be identified and committed to
maintenance before trail construction begins. A strong maintenance
program when combined with good trail design and adequate safety signage
will remove much of the liability exposure from the trail system.
Maintenance of the trail system should include:
1. Trash pick up.
2. Repairing and maintenance of site facilities such as benches, trash
receptacles, picnic tables, restrooms, parking areas, signage, railings,
fences, etc.

Trail maintenance is key to the longevity and lasting appeal of the
52-85 Trail System. Being a large and diverse trail system
interconnecting several municipalities and spanning two counties,
maintenance must be administered either by government agencies
through a special maintenance district or by a well-organized
volunteer effort.
Maintenance of the 52-85 Trail should be an ongoing effort to
keep the system in excellent condition. Many of the maintenance
requirements for this system are seasonal. Summer requirements
include trail surface repair, replacement of vegetation and mowing
the margin along the trail. Winter requirements include, but are not
limited, to snow removal of parking lots and temporary irrigation
system winterization.
Maintenance to be performed on a continuous basis includes:

Trail inspections need to be regularly scheduled. The frequency
of inspections will depend on the amount of trail use, location,
age of trail segment, and the type of construction. Items for
consideration include documentation of inspections, the
condition of railings, bridges and trail surfaces, review of
signage, removal of debris, and coordination with other agencies
associated with the trail maintenance. All trail inspections are to
be documented.

2.

Trail sweeping is one of the most important aspects of trail
maintenance and helps ensure the safety of trail users. The
type of sweeping to be performed depends on trail design and
location. Trails that require sweeping of the whole segment
should be swept by machine. Trails that require only spot
sweeping of bad areas can be swept by hand or with blowers.
Some trail segments will require a combination of methods.

Trash removal for the trail corridor is important from health,
safety and aesthetic viewpoints. Trash removal includes
removing ground debris and emptying trash containers along
the trails. Trash removal will take place on a regularly
scheduled basis, the frequency of which will depend on trail use
and location.

Snow and ice removal may be necessary in banked or shaded areas of the
trail and near bridges and underpasses. Once constructed, these areas of
the trail will need special attention as winter storm systems approach.

4. Tree and shrub pruning will be performed to established
specifications on a scheduled and as needed basis, the frequency
of which will be fairly low.
5. Mowing of vegetation must be done by trails maintenance
personnel along trail corridors on a scheduled basis.
Maintenance to be performed on an irregular or as needed basis includes:
1. Trail repair.
2. Trail replacement.
3. Weed control.
4. Trail edging.
5. Drainage control.
6. Signage replacement.

Trees Along Trail in Firestone

7. Re-vegetation.
8. Habitat enhancement and control.
Snow removal will be determined by local jurisdictionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s current
practices. Snowfall along the Front Range of Colorado generally melts
away from roadways and paths within a day or two. Quite often, streets
will be fairly clear of snow by noon of the day after the storm. With
good design that takes advantage of trail alignments that maximize sun
exposure, much of the trail system should melt free of snow quickly.

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Signage

12
Trail signage is the system of boards or placards bearing information,
regulations, or safety information along a trail. Signage is a functional
element in the trail environment and necessary for safe and enjoyable
trail use.
Each segment of the 52-85 Trail is unique, but each section is still part
of the Colorado Front Range Trail. As such, each community should
display CFRT signs along the trail. Colorado State Parks will provide
CFRT signage to communities. These signs can also be incorporated into
communities’ existing sign standards.

All regulatory and warning signs and their locations will meet the
MUTCD standards for sign dimension, style and placement.
There are four major categories of signs to be placed within the 52-85
Trail system:
1. Regulatory signs that communicate a demand of action on the
trail user such as stop or yield.
2. Warning signs alerting users of possible or particular events such
as a sharp turn or traffic crossing.
3. Directional signs that indicate the direction along a path that
leads to a destination.

Signage along the 52-85 Trail will provide patrons with use guidelines
and information regarding the trail. Signage will help direct and control
traffic and will help the user feel secure and aware of their surroundings.
A consistent style of signage will tie different portions of the trail having
certain unique characteristics to other portions of the trail, which will
have significantly different characteristics. The 52-85 Trail logo will
be used on all site specific signs related to the trail and open lands.
Locations, shapes, sizes, materials, and graphics will be consistent
throughout the entire system (see examples) and built in accordance with
all applicable standards.
The Manual for
Uniform Traffic
Control Devices
(MUTCD), developed
by the United States
Department of
Transportation, offers
standards and basic
principals regarding
traffic control signage.

Regulatory Signs
In the absence of local sign regulations, consult MUTCD, Part IX for
bicycle lane and pavement markings as well as for details on all aspects of
regulatory signs for bicycle facilities. Also, consult CDOT sign standards.
1. STOP: Place at locations where users are required to stop. These
must be placed at all intersections with vehicular traffic. Locate
appropriately so signs are not visible to motorists but are clearly
visible to trail users.
2. YIELD: Use this sign where users can see approaching traffic and
must yield to the traffic. Yield signs should be used only where
visibility of approaching traffic is adequate for safety.
3. STOP AHEAD and YIELD AHEAD: These signs should be
used where the view of an intersection is obscured.
4. WARNING: These signs should be placed 50 feet before any
unexpected or potentially dangerous condition.
5. INTERSECTION: use these signs to warn users of intersections
with other trails or roads.
Site Specific Signs
At trailheads and access points there will be a primary kiosk/sign
located at the beginning of the trail. It will have a map of the trail,
information on important features, guidelines and rules of trail and
land use, activities permitted on the trail, geographic information and
funding acknowledgement. There will also be signs directing parking
rules and other pertinent and regulatory information for each location.
On the trail, there will be directional signs located at the trail
intersections and at two mile intervals along the path, warning signs
at potentially dangerous locations, informational and interpretive
signs at points of interest and mile markers located at each mile of
trail. There will also be signs indicating the location of emergency
phones.

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User Safety
The following actions could be implemented to make the trail users
more aware of regulations and safety practices:
1. Post trail regulations, safety information, pathway ethics and
updated maps at all trailheads.
2. A volunteer bike path patrol should be developed that would
take on a role to educate and inform users of trail regulations
and safe riding practices.
3. The distribution of information should be coordinated with
bicycle rental shops, recreation centers, other businesses or city
offices. This could be done by providing handouts for the shops
to distribute which inform cyclists about trail regulations, peak use
times on the pathways, weather patterns, and safety information.
4. The County and communities should coordinate a series of
articles to be printed in visitor-oriented publications and also
daily newspapers. These articles could be converted to public
service announcements on the local radio and/or cable stations.
The four most critical safety issues on the trail are speed, stopping on
pathways, keeping right except to pass and mixed use issues. Faster
cyclists should be directed to remain on the roads or ride at safe
speeds along the pathways as they sometimes ride at speeds that do
now allow time to react to other users on the pathways.
Pathway maps should indicate roads for faster cyclists as alternatives to
using pathways. Users stopping on the paved portions of the pathway
are also a serious safety hazard. These users block the pathway when
they do not pull off the trail to stop. The trailhead signs and pathway
maps should emphasize the importance of pulling off the path when
stopping. Users should be educated about the importance of not
blocking the pathway, especially families with children.

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Where space allows, the trail corridors should have safe shoulders
that are easy to use when stopping. It is not uncommon to have
bicyclist groups ride three or four abreast congesting the pathway
for oncoming traffic. This happens mostly when families and
other groups are riding together along the pathway. The trailhead
signage and pathway maps should emphasize the importance of
bicyclists staying on the right while riding. Bicycle helmets help
protect riders from head injuries. Information at trail portals
and on trail maps should emphasize the importance of wearing a
helmet while riding or in-line skating.
As a result of the continued increase in the use of and interest in
trail systems, emphasis should be placed on the safe management
of the pathways, especially through educating users on trail system
regulations and good safety practices.

Interpretive sign in Brighton’s Veterans Park

Sign on Firestone Trail

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Implementation Plan

13
This plan calls for the creation or expansion of 47 miles of trails as
well as trail amenities. This work will occur over a 15 to 25 year
period or longer, beginning in 2008, and will involve a number of
partners and stakeholders taking advantage of opportunities as they
present themselves. This shall include requiring building trails in new
developments, mining reclamation, and highway improvements.
Realization of this plan will require:
• Organizing and sustaining project partners and community
leadership to champion the plan.
• Understanding the cost implications of the plan—both capital
and maintenance.
• Securing necessary land and interconnected right-of-way for
trails, related corridors and trailheads.
• Identifying specific funding sources and partners.
• Building and maintaining strong long-term community support
for the plan.
• Coordinating with surrounding communities and partners
including the CFRT Development Council.
Cost projections for implementation of trails and trailheads, as well
as operation and maintenance, can be found in the Colorado Front
Range Trail Comprehensive Implementation Plan at:
http://parks.state.co.us/Trails/ColoradoFrontRangeTrail/ImplementationPlan/

Construction of Firestone Trail

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Project Phasing
This plan identifies multiple alignment alternatives for each segment of
the 52-85 Trail. The working group’s preferred alternatives may not be
the fastest to get on the ground. The main objective is to create trails to
connect 52-85 Communities. Therefore, if there are alternatives that are
easier to build, they should be put on the ground first. Several important
criteria to guide project phasing can be identified:
•

The project is consistent with preferred alignments identified in
this plan.

•

When realization of preferred alignment is not a short-term
possibility, the project is consistent with an alternative alignment
identified in this plan

•

Verify availability of funds, resources or regulatory tools to
complete the project.

Emphasize connections and logical segments. The project
should form a vital link or spine of the larger 52-85 Trail system
or network in the regional system keeping in mind the CFRT
vision:
“to create a multi-purpose trail from Wyoming to New Mexico, along
the Front Range of Colorado. The 900-mile trail will link diverse
communities, scenic landscapes, cultural and historic points, parks,
open space and other attractions.”

•

The project takes advantage of special funding, acquisition or
partnering opportunities.

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Using these criteria and input by community staff, elected
officials, stakeholders, user groups and the Colorado Front Range
Development Council, a number of projects can be identified for
immediate team action:
Leadership to Champion the Plan
The continued commitment of 52-85 Communities will be vital to
the success of this plan. This means sustained leadership by staff,
elected officials and community members. Because staff changes
over time and some elements of this plan could take 15-25 years
to complete, the working group recommends that communities
individually adopt this plan and incorporate it into future planning
and development. The working group also recommends that:
•

The 52-85 Trail Working Group should continue to meet
quarterly to strategize and to oversee this effort addressing
such issues as acquisition of right-of-way, volunteer projects,
fundraising, design, construction, and maintenance of facilities.

•

Communities should regularly review their development
regulation ordinances including subdivision, storm drainage,
and utility policies to ensure they are in conformance with, and
supportive of, the plan.

•

52-85 Trail Communities should work individually and as a group
to garner resources and funds for trail development including
grant writing, financial strategy and partnership building.

•

Expand and maintain effective partnerships among agencies,
jurisdictions and stakeholders. This will help optimize funds
and resources, strengthening the position of all the partners
in securing grants, and promoting policies and programs that
support the plan. Coordination will also help promote an
integrated system of trails, parks and open space corridors that
transcend jurisdictional lines.

•

Citizen advocacy to champion the plan— identify community
leaders and groups willing to step forward and champion this
plan. Sub-committees chaired by dedicated individuals should
also be created to work with staff to oversee and promote the
implementation of the various identified priority projects. At
some point, if private sector funds are raised, this group might
incorporate as a non-profit under Sec. 501(c)(3) of the Internal
Revenue Code.

Building and Maintaining Community Support
Solid community support for the project is critical. Citizens,
developers, business people and land owners must not only be inspired
by the plan, but also embrace it over the long term as it will ultimately
serve them. Stakeholders should be kept informed, involved and
realize a direct benefit to them and their communities. This can be
accomplished by:
•

Having an effective public information program including
clear, easy-to-read reports, brochures, web site updates,
posters, and progress presentations. Prominently located
“status boards” should be maintained at strategic locations
such as recreation centers, post offices, and libraries. The
boards should be regularly updated to show progress and need
for additional support or funds.

•

Prioritizing projects that will benefit 52-85 area residents
and visitors, providing linkage to the larger Colorado Front
Range Trail system.

•

Immediately moving forward with pilot projects that demonstrate
the plan’s vision as well as completing and dedicating additional
projects and project elements year-by-year.

•

Having a quality management and maintenance program that
includes an effective citizen/user feedback mechanism to provide
a responsive ear for each user concern.

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Partners in implementing Firestone Trail

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14

Funding and Policy Resources

Funding is one of the most challenging aspects of trail implementation.
Public funding is increasingly competitive and scarce. Money from
foundations and other philanthropic organizations and groups is also
difficult to acquire, in part because available funds are highly soughtafter. Nevertheless, all potential sources should be explored to the
fullest. Having a good trail master plan is the first step toward securing
implementation funding.
There are a number of potential funding sources and policy measures
that can aid implementation of this plan. These include resources at the
local, county, regional, state and federal levels as well as private sector
contributions. 52-85 Trail Project partners should investigate and track
programs and explore funding potentials on an on-going basis.
The following pages offer a comprehensive description of funding sources
that can be used to support the acquisition of land, development of trails
and trail facilities and operation of a regional trails program for 52-85
Trail communities and counties. The sources are organized and defined by
local, state and federal resources and agencies.

Local Sources
A local, dedicated source of revenue can be established and utilized to
attract state and federal funding.
Sales Tax
One potential mechanism for generating revenue for trails and open
space is collection of sales tax. For example, the City of Brighton
collects a ¾ of a cent per dollar sales tax that is used to fund recreation,
parks, trails, and open space as well as some maintenance. Adams
County also collects an open space tax that funds grants for passive and
active open space as well as trails and parks purchases and projects.
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Property Tax
Typically, property taxes support a significant portion of local
government activities. The revenues from property taxes can also be
used to pay debt service on general obligation bonds issued to finance
open space system acquisitions. For locally funded open space, park
and trail programs, property taxes can provide a steady stream of
financing while broadly distributing the tax burden. In other parts
of the country, property taxes have been a popular method to pay
for park and open space projects with voters as long as the increase is
restricted to parks and open space.
Excise Taxes
Excise taxes are taxes on specific goods and services. Examples
include lodging, food, and beverage taxes that generate funds for
promotion of tourism, and the gas tax that generates revenues for
transportation related activities. Excise taxes may be a viable source
for funding a future regional trails program.
Bonds/Loans
Bonds have been a very popular way for communities across the
country to finance their open space, parks and trails projects. A
number of bond options are listed below. Since bonds rely on the
support of the voting population, an education and awareness
program should be implemented prior to any vote.
Revenue Bonds
Revenue bonds are bonds that are secured by a pledge of the revenues
from a certain local government activity. The entity issuing bonds
pledges to generate sufficient revenue annually to cover the program’s
operating costs, plus meet the annual debt service requirements
(principal and interest payment). Revenue bonds are not constrained
by the debt ceilings of general obligation bonds, but they are
generally more expensive than general obligation bonds.

General Obligation Bonds
Local governments can issue general obligation (G.O.) bonds that are
secured by the full faith and credit of the entity. In this case, the local
government issuing the bonds pledges to raise its property taxes, or use
any other sources of revenue, to generate sufficient revenues to make
the debt service payments on the bonds. A general obligation pledge is
stronger than a revenue pledge, and thus may carry a lower interest rate
than a revenue bond. Frequently, when local governments issue G.O.
bonds for public enterprise improvements, the public enterprise will make
the debt service payments on the G.O. bonds with revenues generated
through the public enterprise’s rates and charges. However, if those rate
revenues are insufficient to make the debt payment, the local government
is obligated to raise taxes or use other sources of revenue to make the
payments. G.O. bonds distribute the costs of open space acquisition and
make funds available for immediate purchases. Voter approval is required.
Special Assessment Bonds
Special assessment bonds are secured by a lien on property that benefits
by the improvements funded with the special assessment bond proceeds.
Debt service payments on these bonds are funded through annual
assessments to the property owners in the assessment area.
Fees and Service Charges
• Park and Recreation User Fees.
• Land Use Fees.
• Impact Fees (from new development).
• Sign Permit Fees.
• Business Regulation Fees.
• Building Department Fees.
Impact Fees
Communities may be able to assess impact fees on new development
to address future trail construction and improvements.

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In-Lieu-Of Fees
As an alternative to requiring developers to dedicate on-site open space
that would serve their development, some communities provide a
choice of paying a front-end charge for off-site open space protection.
Payment is generally a condition of development approval and recovers
the cost of the off-site greenway land acquisition or the development’s
proportionate share of the cost of a regional parcel serving a larger
area. Some communities prefer in-lieu-of fees. This alternative allows
community staff to purchase land worthy of protection rather than
accept marginal land that meets the quantitative requirements of a
developer dedication but falls a bit short of qualitative interests.
Trust Fund
The 52-85 Trail communities and counties may consider working
in partnership to establish a Parks, Open Space and Trails Trust
Fund. This Trust Fund would be a dedicated source of funding that
supports the operation and management of portions of the trail
system. The counties and communities can work with a private
financial institution to set up an investment account or work with a
local foundation to establish the endowment. Contributions to the
fund would be solicited from parks, open space and trail advocates,
businesses, civic groups, and other foundations. The goal would be
to establish a capital account that would earn interest and use the
interest monies to support trail maintenance and operations. Special
events could be held whose sole purpose is to raise capital money for
the Trust Fund. A trust fund can also be used in the acquisition of
high-priority properties that may be lost if not acquired by private
sector initiative. A trust fund example is the Mountains-to-Sound
Greenway Legacy Fund in Washington. The Mountains-to-Sound
Greenway Legacy Fund is an endowment fund managed by The
Seattle Foundation. Its purpose is the protection of the Mountainsto-Sound Greenway, for the public good, in perpetuity. It will be
used to support restoration, enhancement, education and advocacy
programs of the Mountains-to-Sound Greenway Trust.

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Local Park, Open Space and Trail Sponsors
A sponsorship program for trail amenities allows smaller donations
to be received from both individuals and businesses. Cash
donations could be placed into a trust fund to be accessed for certain
construction or acquisition projects associated with the greenways and
open space system. Some recognition of the donors is appropriate
and can be accomplished through the placement of a plaque, the
naming of a trail segment, and/or special recognition at an opening
ceremony. Types of gifts other than cash could include donations of
services, equipment, labor, or reduced costs for supplies.
Volunteer Work
It is expected that many citizens will be excited about the
development of a greenway corridor or a new park or canoe access
point. Individual volunteers from the community can be brought
together with groups of volunteers from church groups, civic groups,
scout troops and environmental groups to work on greenway
development on special community workdays. Volunteers can also be
used for fund-raising, maintenance, and programming needs.

•

Military/Corrections Labor—This is the use of military or
corrections institution labor and equipment to build projects.

•

Military bases or Colorado National Guard.

Local Policies and Regulatory Measures
Each community should enforce existing policies and regulatory
measures or adopt measures that could aid in getting trails on the
ground. The City of Brighton has several measures in place that could
be used as examples including development impact requirements, fees
and taxes. These are fees or taxes assessed on new commercial and
residential property. Impact fees and local requirements reflect the
need for facilities created by new development. In some instances,
fees and requirements are specifically stipulated in the code. In some
instances, certain improvements might be negotiated as part of the
development review process.
In addition, Brighton currently requires that:
•

developers provide right-of-way and construct trails along
streams and canals;

•

developers provide trails and sidewalks along arterials and
collector roads per published City standards and;

•

park impact fees funds are collected for community and
neighborhood parks. Developers must construct the park or pay
a fee per unit. These can only be spent on park improvements,
but could include trails in parks.

Some of the volunteer, youth and other in-kind programs that should
be considered as a trail development resources include:
•

Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado— Organizes trail and land
stewardship projects on public lands in Colorado.

•

Mountain Bike Organizations—Including the International
Mountain Bicycling Association and the Fat Tire Society.

•

Youth Programs—Including Youth Corps and other
programs for at risk youth.

•

In-kind Resources—use of City, County, or donated labor
and equipment to build projects.

Brighton’s Planned Unit Development Overlay Zoning District
provisions (Sec. 4.7 City of Brighton Zoning Regulations)
provides for density bonuses of up to 25% increase for the
provisions of greenbelts, trails, open space and parklands. See
Sections 4 (a) (c) and 5 (c) and (d).

•

Other policy considerations include:
•

Subdivision Regulations—requires developers to submit plans for
review and approval. The plans must meet certain engineering
criteria (including those described above) as stipulated in the
City Zoning Ordinance and municipal codes. The City can
require that land unsuitable for development due to flooding,
improper drainage, steep slopes, unsuitable soil conditions,
utility right-of-way and other conditions that may be harmful to
public safety, health and general welfare may not be developed
unless adequate methods are formulated and approved.
Furthermore, the City may withhold approval of the subdivision
if it is determined that increased stormwater runoff may
overload existing downstream drainage facilities. In addition,
developers are required to dedicate land for parks, open space
and recreational facilities or make cash-in-lieu-of-land dedication
and pay fees for park and recreation facilities. The developer is
also required to make certain street and sidewalk improvements.

(See Brighton Subdivision code at www.brightonco.communitydev.org).

•

Floodplain Ordinances—requires that all structures or land
modifications in the designated floodway and floodplain comply
with certain requirements. Specifically, a permit is required
before any construction can take place in the floodplain. Any
encroachment in the floodway is prohibited unless a licensed
professional engineer or architect can demonstrate that
encroachment will not increase the flood level of the 100-year flood
by more than one foot in the floodway fringe and result in no flood
level increase in the floodway. Floodplain corridors may be ideal for
trail use with multiple benefits including drainageway maintenance.

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Buffer Zones— requires the developer to dedicate open space
and/or setbacks along the edges of stream corridors, wetlands,
and other places where potentially incompatible land use may
abut. The goals may include preserving water quality, protecting
groundwater discharge, attenuating stormwater runoff and other
general health, safety and welfare benefits. If appropriately
designed, trails may be suitable in some buffer zone areas.

Land and Right-of-Way Acquisition
Note: Colorado has a Recreational Use Statute (RUS) (Sec.33-41101 thru –105, C.R.S.) meaning that the liability of property owners
and adjacent property owners who grant right–of-way for recreational
purposes is limited. An attorney, however, should be consulted to
determine current status of the law and specific implications.
•

Fee Simple Purchase—includes the entire “bundle” of rights in
perpetuity—usually the most costly acquisition.

•

Easements—a conveyance of certain, but not all, rights
associated with a property. Several types of easements may
be applicable here including: public access (i.e., for trails);
conservation (to protect natural resources, floodplain or water
quality values); and preservation easements (to protect historic
integrity or values of a property) or combinations thereof.
Many easements may allow the owner to continue his use of
the property for compatible purposes such as farming and some
easements may allow the owner to restrict public access. In some
cases, the town may simply purchase the development rights.

•

Donation/Bargain Sale/Tax Incentives—a willing property
owner conveys the property, or right-of-way or interest in
property as a charitable contribution or at a less than fair
market value price (bargain sale). The donor may be eligible
for Federal, State and local tax deductions and may be able to
avoid inheritance taxes, capital gains or recurring property taxes.
In some cases, the owner may donate a future interest in the

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land or retain a life tenancy allowing the donor to remain on the
property, use the property, or take income from the property for
the remainder of their life or lives.
•

Option, Lease-Option or First Right of Refusal—This is an
agreement with the owner to secure the right to acquire the
property or right-of-way in the future. This protects the land
in the short term until funds are found to make the purchase.
Variations on this might include transaction through a third party
such as a land conservancy or The Trust for Public Lands, where
the third party buys and holds the land on the town’s behalf.
Communities may make rent payments or installment payments
on the property over an extended period of time.

•

License or Revocable Permit—A property owner grants the right
to use the property (usually a trail right-of-way) for a period
of years (usually 25 years or more). In the case of a revocable
permit, the grantor may terminate the right of use or access under
certain conditions. Examples include the right for a trail to pass
through a State Highway right-of-way or through a property
where the owner is hesitant to grant permanent access.

•

Cooperative Partnership Land Management—Certain public
agencies may choose to cooperate and partner in the pursuit of
mutual land management benefits. Under this scenario, public
land managers agree to manage the land for multiple objectives
such as conservation, land treatment of wastewater, wetland
banking, joint use recreational/maintenance trails and water
quality benefits. These might be implemented through short and
long term intergovernmental agreements.

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State Of Colorado Sources
Colorado SB 07-98 (Fitz-Gerald/White Act)
The 52-85 Trail Project area has a unique opportunity to protect
water quality, natural areas, working farms and ranches, wildlife
habitat and create new parks for outdoor recreation. SB 07-98,
otherwise known as the Fitz-Gerald/White Act, allows counties to ask
voters to approve up to a half-cent sales and use tax to fund an open
space program that can most accurately reflect local priorities for
acquisition and management. In accordance with TABOR, counties
could only exceed the sales and use tax cap for the purpose of open
space and parks after subjecting the measure to a vote. SB-07-98
is designed to be a new resource for financially constrained county
governments interested in creating dedicated revenues for land
conservation. A local dedicated funding source is vital to attracting
matching funds from state and federal sources and for purposes
of pursuing land conservation projects with interested and willing
sellers. In Colorado, many counties are currently at their statutory
sales tax maximum on voter-approved sales and use tax authority.
SB-07-98 allows voters to decide for themselves whether to dedicate
funds solely to fund open space protection.
Colorado Lottery
The Colorado Lottery and Great Outdoors Colorado, approved on
the ballot by voters in 1980 and passed by the General Assembly in
1982 (SB 119), established a state-sponsored lottery which began in
January of 1983. As voted on, some of the proceeds of this lottery
go to land conservation. Originally, 40 percent of the proceeds went
to the Conservation Trust Fund, 10 percent to Colorado State Parks,
and 50 percent to the Capital Construction Fund for state buildings
and prisons. However, in 1992 a petition put a measure on the ballot
to create a Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) Trust Fund and the

measure was favorably approved with 58 percent. Between 1993
and 1998, GOCO received 15 percent of the proceeds and in 1999
received 50 percent. From the creation of the lottery through Fiscal
Year (FY) 2000, $1.1 billion was made available for state programs,
$98.5 million in FY 2000 alone. In 1998, legislation was enacted
extending the Colorado Lottery to 2009. In 2000, a ballot measure
passed that authorized the state to participate in Powerball, a multistate lottery. The game’s proceeds are divided among GOCO, CTF,
and State Parks.
Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO)
In 1992, voters placed on the ballot and approved the creation of
the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund. GOCO is funded by the
proceeds of the Colorado Lottery, receiving 50 percent with a $35
million cap, adjusted for inflation (proceeds above that are returned
to the State General Fund). The GOCO Trust Fund is administered
by a 15-member Board of Trustees and is used to fund outdoor
recreation, wildlife protection, and open space acquisition. State and
local government agencies, including special districts, and nonprofit
land conservation organizations are eligible to apply for grants. 2550 percent matching funds are required. Between 1994 and 2001,
GOCO distributed $240.9 million to 1,419 projects. More than $28
million went to fund 99 Open Space Projects, conserving 156,000
acres. Another $108.2 million was awarded to fund 24 Legacy Projects
that “place strong emphasis on the preservation of land.” The St.
Vrain Valley Open Lands and Trails Project Master Plan was funded
through a GOCO Legacy Grant. GOCO has also helped the State
Parks Department purchase 15,259 acres of new parkland and aided
the Division of Wildlife purchase land for a 30,000-acre State Wildlife
Area. Forty-eight projects by local governments were funded for new
park and land acquisition projects. In recent years, available funding
has met the $35 million cap and is expected to do so again in FY 2001.
The Powerball game will help ensure that the cap is met in future years.

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Conservation Trust Fund (CTF)
Over 400 cities, towns, counties, and special districts are eligible
to receive CTF grants, distributed by the Colorado Department of
Local Affairs. The funds may be used to acquire open space and to
purchase, maintain, or restore local facilities, equipment, and parks.
In FY 2000, CTF received $35.8 million from lottery proceeds.
Colorado Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation (State Parks)
Colorado has 40 state parks, and lottery money is used to fund
land acquisition, trail systems, park facilities, and equipment. In
FY 2000, $9.4 million of the $17.7 Capital Budget was funded
by lottery proceeds with an additional $5.3 million contribution
from GOCO. Seventeen percent of the Division’s 2000 Capital
Construction Budget is allocated for land and water acquisitions.
Conservation Easement Tax Credit
On May 28, 1999, Governor Bill Owens signed House Bill 1155, a
law that grants an income tax credit to individuals or corporations
for the donation of conservation easements to governmental entities
or non-profits. The original maximum tax credit was $100,000 and
could be used over a period of up to 20 years. An act signed on
June 1, 2001, raised that maximum to $260,000 (100 percent of the
first $100,000 of the donated value and 40 percent of the remaining
value, up to that cap) and set the maximum credit that could be used
each year at $50,000. This law is expected to cost the state $1.5
million in FY 2003, $4.5 in FY 2004, and $7.5 in FY 2005.
Colorado Council on the Arts
The Colorado Council on the Arts (CCA) provides grants in two
subsets: grants to artists and organizations and youth development
grants. The grants to artists and organizations are designed to
leverage local support for arts and cultural activities in support
of CCA’s goals, including activities that support and promote

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the state’s cultural heritage. Artists, cultural organizations and
community groups are eligible to apply. www.coloarts.state.co.us
Colorado Tourism Office — Marketing Matching Grant Program
The Colorado Tourism Office (CTO) administers the Statewide
Marketing Matching Grant Program, which assists organizations with
promotion of the state as a whole, and the Regional Matching Grant
Program which assists organizations with the promotion of specific
regions in Colorado. Within the context of marketing projects, the
funds may be spent on promotion, product packaging, networking
and communication and education. Not-for-profit organizations
are eligible to apply. For every $1 the organization allocates to the
program, the CTO will provide $2 in matching funds.
www.colorado.com/static.php?file=industry_partners
State Historical Fund
The Colorado Historical Society’s State Historical Fund awards grants
for preservation projects, education projects (including heritage
tourism) and survey and planning projects. All projects must focus
on the built historical environment including, but not limited
to, buildings, landscapes and individuals involved in the building
industry. Only not-for-profit and public entities are eligible to apply.
A 25 percent match is requested. The State Historical Fund assists in
the writing and administration of grants through its Public Outreach
Unit that reads drafts, visits sites and conducts grant workshops.
Approximately 65 percent of applications receive funding.
www.coloradohistory-oahp.org/programareas/shf/shfindex.htm
Tourism Cares
Tourism Cares supports the efforts of tourism to “preserve, conserve
and promote” projects that are cultural and historic assets through
its worldwide grant program. Grants provide money for capital
improvements on important sites as well as the education of local
communities and the traveling public about conservation
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and preservation. Only 501(3)(c) not-for-profit corporations are
eligible. Grant applications that leverage other sources of funding,
are endorsed by the local, state, or regional tourism office and have
strong support from the local community have a better chance of
being funded. www.tourismcares.org.
Colorado Brownfields Foundation
Through its Environmental Due Diligence Technical Assistance
Grant Program, the Colorado Brownfields Foundation provides
money that can be used to conduct a Phase 1 Environmental
Assessment to cover environmental due diligence requirements and
identify potential liabilities associated with the re-use of historic
properties. Adaptive use planning is also provided. While the
property can be either publicly or privately owned, the grant must
be applied for by a government agency. A match is not required.
www.coloradobrownfieldsfoundation.org/edd2006.html
Colorado Division of Wildlife
The Colorado Division of Wildlife provides funds to preserve,
protect and create natural habitats and landscapes. The Cooperative
Habitat Improvement Program (CHIP) provides financial and
technical assistance to landowners for the creation and enhancement
of habitat. The Pheasant Habitat Improvement Program provides
funding and technical assistance for habitat restoration.
The Colorado Wetlands Partnership
The Colorado Wetlands Partnership (CWP) provides funding
for wetland restoration and creation, and for the purchase of
conservation easements and fee titles. Private landowners, public
entities and nonprofits are eligible. CHIP requires a 15-percent
match in cash or in kind services by the landowner who is responsible
for maintenance. CWP requires funds from other sources to be used,
but sets no specific match. wildlife.state.co.us

Colorado State Parks — State Trails Program Grant Process
Through its State Trails Program grant process, Colorado State Parks
provides funds for the acquisition of land or water to be used for
recreational purposes or for the construction or redevelopment of
outdoor recreational facilities. Only if the project is done with the
Colorado State Parks can the funds be used for planning projects.
Municipalities, counties and special districts are eligible to apply. The
grant process is competitive and requires a 50/50 fund match. Projects
should attempt to be in line with the current Statewide Comprehensive
Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP).
www.parks.state.co.us/default.asp?action=park&parkID=111
Department of Local Affairs — Energy and Mineral Impact Assistance
Energy and Mineral Impact Grants administered by the
Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) assist communities affected
by the growth and decline of extractive industries. This money
can fund improvements to public facilities and local government
planning efforts where cultural heritage tourism-related goals
can be furthered through economic development initiatives.
Municipalities, counties, school districts, special districts and state
agencies are eligible for the funds. Because these grants require
matching funds, applications with higher matches receive more
favor as they highlight community support.
www.dola.state.co.us/LGS/FA/emia.htm
Department of Local Affairs — Heritage Grants Through the Smart
Growth Initiative
Administered by the Department of Local Affairs, Heritage Grants
awarded through the Smart Growth Initiative are intended to
address the impacts of growth. These grants have been frequently
used to fund planning efforts, including those that end or mitigate
the loss of agriculture and working landscapes. Towns, cities,
counties and special districts can apply for the grants. These grants
require matching funds and applications with a higher match are

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favored because they demonstrate community support.
www.dola.state.co.us/SmartGrowth/chpg.htm
Colorado Department of Transportation / TEA-21
The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) will accept
Transportation Enhancement applications from federal, tribal,
state, county or municipal governmental agencies. The applicant
restriction was adopted because of project development and
financial administration requirements associated with this federally
funded program. CDOT recognizes that many private, non-profit,
and civic organizations have a strong interest in, and support for,
using these funds. These groups must partner with government
agencies to develop project applications and sponsorships.
Eligible Activities: There are twelve (12) eligible activities described
in TEA-21. These activities fall within the project categories listed
below. Only these activities qualify as Transportation Enhancement
activities. The 12 eligible activities as paraphrased below are:
1. Pedestrian and bicycle facilities.
2. Pedestrian and bicycle safety and education activities.
3. Acquisition of scenic easements and scenic or historic sites.
4. Scenic or historic highway programs, including tourist and
welcome centers.
5. Landscaping and scenic beautification.
6. Historic preservation.
7. Rehabilitation/operation of historic transportation buildings,
structures, or facilities.
8. Conversion of abandoned railway corridors to trails.
9. Control and removal of outdoor advertising.
10. Archaeological planning and research.

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11. Environmental mitigation of water pollution due to highway
runoff, and provision of wildlife connectivity.
12. Establishment of transportation museums.
Project Categories: This list is intended to be exclusive, not illustrative.
CDOT has further defined these activities into four project categories.
Transportation Enhancement projects must fall into one of the
following project categories:
1. Pedestrian and Bicycle Facilities
2. Historic Preservation
4. Environmental Mitigation
Evaluation Process: CDOT uses a two-step evaluation method to
determine if projects qualify under the Transportation Enhancement
Program. Applications must meet all of the following threshold criteria:
• The applicant is a governmental entity or a partnership in which
one or more governmental entities are involved in a lead role and
have the authority to enter into a contract with the State.
• Projects located within a Metropolitan Planning Organization’s
(MPO) planning area are approved, prioritized and submitted by
the MPO; certifying that the proposed project is included in their
20-year plan and 6-year Transportation Improvement Program
(TIP). Contact the local MPO to determine how to get your
project considered for their 20-year plan.
• The application package includes all required attachments.
• The application is received by CDOT or the agency designated by
your CDOT Region prior to the application deadline.
• The applicant demonstrates how the project is one or more of

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• Must demonstrate a relationship to surface transportation.
• The application demonstrates that the required 20% minimum
local match is available to support the project.
• Written permission and/or support from property owners whose
land or property is required to complete the project.
• The application includes a commitment for long-term
maintenance of the completed project.
• The completed project is open to the general public and meets
the accessibility standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

3. Transportation Aesthetics

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52-85 Trail Master plan

• The completed project meets applicable federal, state, and local
requirements.
• The application demonstrates that the completed project fulfills a
public need or benefit related to the State’s transportation system.
Project sponsors are encouraged to submit their applications as soon
as possible. Early application submission allows for the expeditious
completion of the application evaluation process and provides an
opportunity for the Region to resolve any issues discovered during their
review. Applicants must also meet the criteria specific to the CDOT
Region in which the project is located. It is imperative to work directly
with the Transportation Enhancement Program Manager within
the Region. For example: 1) CDOT Region 6 requires applicants to
work directly with the Denver Regional Council of Governments
(DRCOG), and 2) Some projects may encompass two or more CDOT
Regions. These projects are typically considered statewide projects and
are coordinated through the Transportation Enhancement Program
Manager at CDOT Headquarters.

Federal Sources
Most federal programs provide block grants directly to states through
funding formulas. For example, if a Colorado community wants
funding to support a transportation initiative, they would contact the
Colorado Department of Transportation and not the U.S. Department of
Transportation to obtain a grant. Despite the fact that it is rare for a local
community to obtain a funding grant directly from a federal agency, it is
relevant to list the current status of federal programs and the amount of
funding that is available to communities through these programs.
Surface Transportation Act (SAFETEA-LU)
(Accessed through CDOT)
For the past 15 years, the Surface Transportation Act has been the
largest single source of funding for the development of bicycle,
pedestrian, trail and greenway projects. Prior to 1990, the
nation, as a whole, spent approximately $25 million on building
community-based bicycle and pedestrian projects, with the vast
majority of this money spent in one state. Since the passage
of ISTEA, funding has been increased dramatically for bicycle,
pedestrian and greenway projects, with total spending more than
$5 billion. SAFETEA-LU will more than double the total amount
of funding for bicycle/pedestrian/trail projects as compared to its
predecessor TEA-21, with approximately $800 million available
each year. There are many programs within SAFETEA-LU that
deserve mention. The authorizing legislation is complicated and
robust. The following provides a summary of how this federal
funding can be used to support the 52-85 Trail Master Plan. All of
the funding within these programs would be accessed through the
Colorado Department of Transportation.
1) Surface Transportation Program (STP)

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This is the largest single program within the legislation from
a funding point of view, with $32.5 billion committed over

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the next five years. Of particular interest to trail enthusiasts,
10 percent of the funding within this program is set aside for
Transportation Enhancements (TE) activities. Historically, a
little more than half of the TE funds have been used nationally to
support bicycle/pedestrian/trail projects.
2) Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ)

Under SAFETEA-LU, approximately $8.6 billion has been set
aside. Historically, about five percent of these funds have been
used to support bicycle/pedestrian/trail projects. This would equal
about $430 million under SAFETEA-LU.

3) Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP)

SAFETEA-LU funds this program at $5 billion over four years.
Historically, bicycle and pedestrian projects have accounted
for one percent of this program, or about $50 million under
SAFETEA-LU. Some of the eligible uses of these funds
would include traffic calming, bicycle and pedestrian safety
improvements, and installation of crossing signs. This is not
a huge source of funding, but one that could be used to fund
elements of a project.

4) Recreational Trails Program (RTP)

The Recreational Trails Program is specifically set up to fund
both motorized and non-motorized trail development. Under
SAFETEA-LU, funding is established at $370 million for the
five-year term of the legislation. At least 30% of these funds must
be spent on non-motorized trails, or $110 million. The Colorado
State Trails Grant Program funds projects for trail planning
and design, construction, maintenance, equipment, and special
projects. The Colorado State Trails Committee is responsible
for the review process for the trail grant applications and makes
recommendations to the Colorado State Parks Board about
funding for grants. This process may change every year when

Office of Safety, which is working in collaboration with FHWA’s
Offices of Planning and Environment (Bicycle and Pedestrian
Program) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
(NHTSA) to establish and guide the program.

5) Scenic Byways

The National Scenic Byway program has not traditionally been
a good source of funding for bicycle/pedestrian/trail projects.
Colorado has one of the better scenic byway programs in the
nation. The total amount of funding available nationally is
$175 million under SAFETEA-LU. Historically only 2 percent
of these funds has been used to support bicycle and pedestrian
improvements. Applications are only accepted by CDOT from
established scenic byways groups, but historically, byways groups
have advanced proposals in partnership with other organizations
— including cultural heritage tourism groups — in support of
the byways’ goals. The grants are limited to $100,000.
www.coloradobyways.org, sally.pearce@dot.state.co.us

6) Safe Routes to School Program (SR2S)

A new program under SAFETEA-LU is the Safe Routes to School
(SR2S) program, with $612 million in funding during the term
of the legislation. This is an excellent new program to increase
funding for access to the outdoors for children. Each state will
receive no less than $1 million in funding, with 10% to 30% of the
funds allocated to non-infrastructure activities. The SR2S Program
was established in August 2005 as part of the most recent federal
transportation re-authorization legislation - SAFETEA-LU. This
law provides multi-year funding for the surface transportation
programs that guide spending of federal gas tax revenue. Section
1404 of this legislation provides funding (for the first time) for
State Departments of Transportation to create and administer
SR2S programs which allow communities to compete for funding
for local SR2S projects. The administration of section 1404 has
been assigned to Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)’s
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7) High Priority Projects

Under SAFETEA-LU more than 5,091 transportation projects
were earmarked by Congress for development, with a total value
in excess of $3 billion.

Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF)
The Land and Water Conservation Fund is the largest source of
federal money for park, wildlife, and open space land acquisition.
The program’s funding comes primarily from offshore oil and gas
drilling receipts, with an authorized expenditure of $900 million each
year. However, Congress generally appropriates only a fraction of this
amount. The program provides up to 50 % of the cost of a project,
with the balance of the funds paid by states or municipalities. These
funds can be used for outdoor recreation projects, including acquisition,
renovation, and development. Projects require a 50% match.
LWCF was established by Congress in 1964 to create parks and
open spaces; protect wilderness, wetlands, and refuges; preserve
wildlife habitat; and enhance recreational opportunities. LWCF has
underwritten the development of more than 38,000 state and local
park and recreation projects in nearly every county in the nation.
In Colorado, LWCF state matching grants are administered by
Colorado State Parks. Since 1965, nearly 1,000 grants totaling
more than $58 million have funded local government and state park
outdoors investments statewide. In recent years, State Parks has
worked with local government parks and recreation leaders to utilize
the State Trails Program Grants Process to grant LWCF funds.

This process is consistent with statewide surveys that continue
to rank community and regional trail systems among Colorado’s
highest priority outdoors needs. These priorities are documented in
the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP),
which State Parks publishes every five years in order to remain
eligible for annual congressional appropriations of LWCF funds.
http://parks.state.co.us/Trails/LWCF/LWCFGrants.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
The EPA funds a program that enables communities to clean up
polluted properties. Funding for these programs is available directly
from the EPA and is administered in the form of grants to localities.
Brownfields Revitalization Assessment & Cleanup Grant Funding
• Needy communities fare better in competition.
• High unemployment rates, high poverty rates, loss of jobs/
population, minority or other sensitive populations. Include
demographic statistics.
• Mention any unusually high health concerns in the area. Can
any of these be tied to the site(s)?
• Present the environmental, economic, social and health impacts
of Brownfields on the community.
• Environmental justice concerns.
• Focus on the environmental and health impacts of the project.
Recreational Trails Program
The recreational grant program through Colorado State Parks is
intended to fund projects including land acquisition, construction,
reconstruction, maintenance or enhancements to an existing or new
trail or trailhead, and purchase snow grooming equipment. Local,
state and federal governments, school districts, special districts with
recreational opportunities, and nonprofit organizations are eligible to
apply for projects.

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Potential Private Sector Grants
• Philanthropic Funds—grants from local and national private
foundations. In some cases, wealthy individuals may contribute
to a project.
•

Corporate Contributions—These are grants of funds or in-kind
materials or services by businesses. Companies generally will
expect a promotional or advertising benefit commensurate with
the grant amount.

Private and Public Partnerships
• Private Fundraising — While not addressed as a specific strategy
for trails and trail facilities, it is not uncommon that public
monies are leveraged with private donations.
•

Joint Development - Joint development opportunities can
occur between County and other agencies or jurisdictions. In
order to make these kinds of opportunities happen, there must
be on-going and constant communication between people,
governments, business interests, and others.

Voluntary Efforts, Contributions and
Miscellaneous Funding Sources
Service Organizations
Many service organizations and corporations have funds available for
trail facilities. Consider Rotary Clubs or corporations, such as Home
Depot, that are often willing to partner with local communities in
the development of trails and other park and recreation facilities.
Development Contributions
Development contributions are a means for requiring, as a condition
of development approval, a builder or developer to give something to
the County for the development of public facilities. Contributions can
range from impact fees to land dedications for public trail facilities.

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Dedications
The dedication of land for trails has long been an accepted development
requirement, and is another valuable tool for implementing trails. A
county can require the dedication or, if larger-sized parcels are desired, can
offer development “bonuses” such as increased density of development in
exchange for the dedication of land for trails. In some cases, the developer
may also be responsible for trail improvements, which may be maintained
by a Homeowners Association (HOA) or Special District. In such cases, it
is important to determine whether the trail is private or public, and what
the desired and appropriate facilities are that should be provided.
In-Kind and Donated Services or Funds
Several options for local initiatives are possible to further the
implementation of the trails plan. These kinds of programs would require
a proactive recruiting initiative to generate interest and sponsorship, and
may include:
•

Adopt-a-trail, whereby a service organization or group either
raises funds or constructs a given facility with in-kind services;

•

Corporate sponsorships, whereby businesses or large
corporations provide funding for a particular facility, similar
to adopt-a–trail;

•

Public trail construction programs, in which local citizens
donate their time and effort to trail facility construction
and/or maintenance; and

•

Organizations such as the International Mountain Bike
Association (IMBA), which have provided funds and
leadership in similar situations.

Community Block Development Grant Program (HUD-CBDG)
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
offers financial grants to communities for neighborhood revitalization,
economic development, and improvements to community facilities and
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services, especially in low and moderate income areas. Administered
by the Department of Local Affairs, Community Development
Block Grants can be spent on a wide variety of projects, including
property acquisition, public or private building rehabilitation,
construction of public works, public services, planning activities,
assistance to nonprofit organizations and assistance to private,
for-profit entities to carry out economic development. At least 70
percent of the funds must go to benefit low and moderate-income
populations. The funds must go to a local government unit for
disbursement. A detailed citizen participation plan is required.
www.hud.gov/offices/cpd/communitydevelopment/programs/index
and http://dola.colorado.gov/dlg/fa/cdbg/index.html
Economic Development Administration
Funding is available through this federal program in the form
of several different grants. Two grants that may be applicable to
cultural heritage tourism are the Economic Adjustment Assistance
Grant (which helps communities develop comprehensive
redevelopment efforts that could include cultural heritage tourism
programs) and the Planning Program Grant (which helps planning
organizations create comprehensive development strategies). Only
governmental entities are eligible. www.eda.gov
Farm Service Administration
Two Farm Service Administration (FSA) programs help to preserve
sensitive farmland and grassland. The Conservation Reserve
Enhancement Program is a land retirement program for ecologically
sensitive land. The Grassland Reserve Program supports working
grazing operations to maintain the land’s grassland appearance and
ecological function. The funds are available to private farmers and
ranchers, although local governments, tribes and private groups can
also solicit them. These funds are intended to be combined with other
funding, but there is no set match requirement. www.fsa.usda.gov

National Trust for Historic Preservation
This endowment funds 14 different grants. The Preservation
Funds Matching Grants and Intervention Funds assist nonprofit
and public agencies with planning and educational projects or
preservation emergencies, respectively. The Johanna Favrot Fund
for Historic Preservation provides matching grants for nonprofit
and public organizations whose projects contribute to preservation
and/or recapturing an authentic sense of place.
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Fund for Historic Interiors provides
grants for professional expertise, communications, materials and
education programs. Individuals and for-profit groups may apply.
The latter two grants only apply to National Historic Landmark sites.
www.nthp.org/funding
National Endowment for the Arts
The National Endowment for the Arts organizes its grants around
artistic disciplines and fields such as “folk and traditional arts,”
“local arts agencies,” “state and regional” and “museums.” Within
these categories, the applicable grants are listed. The grants provide
funding for artistic endeavors, interpretation, marketing and
planning. Not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organizations and units of state
or local government, or a recognized tribal community are eligible.
An organization must have a three-year history of programming
prior to the application deadline. www.nea.gov
National Endowment For The Humanities
The National Endowment for the Humanities is a federal program
that issues grants to fund high-quality humanities projects. Some
grant categories that may be well suited to cultural heritage tourism
are: grants to preserve and create access to humanities collections,
interpreting America’s historic places implementation and planning
grants, museums and historical organizations implementation grants
and preservation and access research and development projects

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grants. The grants go to organizations such as museums, libraries,
archives, colleges, universities, public television, radio stations and
to individual scholars. Matches are required and can consist of
cash, in-kind gifts or donated services. www.neh.gov
Preserve America
The Preserve America grants program funds “activities related to
heritage tourism and innovative approaches to the use of historic
properties as educational and economic assets.” Its five categories are:
research and documentation, interpretation and education, planning,
marketing, and training. The grant does not fund “bricks and
mortar” rehabilitation or restoration. This grant is available to State
Historic Preservation Officers (SHPOs), Tribal Historic Preservation
Officers (THPOs), designated Preserve America communities and
Certified Local Governments (CLGs) applying for designation as
Preserve America Communities. Grants require a dollar-for-dollar
nonfederal match in the form of cash or donated services.
www.preserveamerica.gov/federalsupport.html
Small Business Administration
Many cultural heritage tourism businesses are small businesses.
The Small Business Administration (SBA) does not itself loan
money, but guarantees loans from banks or from specially chosen
small business investment companies. These loans can be used
for business expenses ranging from start-up costs to real estate
purchases. Rural business investment companies target their funds
toward companies located in rural areas. Eligible companies must
be defined as “small” by the SBA. www.sba.gov
USDA Community Facilities Grant Program
The purpose of USDA Community Facilities Grants is to “ ... assist
in the development of essential community facilities in rural areas
and towns of up to 20,000 in population.” These funds can be used
for facilities that house “... health care, public safety and community

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and public services.” As an example, New Athens, Ohio, used the
funding to restore a museum. Grants are available to public entities
such as municipalities, counties and special-purpose districts, as well
as nonprofit corporations and tribal governments.
www.rurdev.usda.gov
USDA Rural Development Co-Operative Service Grants
These grants can be used to develop new co-ops and provide
assistance to existing co-ops with the broad goal of improving rural
economic conditions. The funds must be used for something co-op
related, which limits their applicability to cultural heritage tourism,
but as an example, a co-op farmer’s market was able to use these
funds. Eligible recipients are not-for-profit 501(c)(3) corporations
and institutes of higher education. Public bodies are not eligible. A
25-percent match is required. www.rurdev.usda.gov
USDA Farm and Ranch Lands Protection Program
This USDA program is administered by the Natural Resource
Conservation Service and provides funds for the purchase of
conservation easements on working lands. It requires that a
management plan be produced and that the land stay in use. The
funds can go to landowners, government agencies and local nongovernment organizations such as land trusts. A 50 percent match is
required. www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/frpp.
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service has a long list of grant programs
that benefit the conservation or restoration of habitats. These include
grants for private landowners to assist in protecting endangered
species, grants to restore the sport fish population and grants for
habitat conservation planning and land acquisition. The amount,
matching requirements and eligibility for each grant vary. The
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website also provides practical information about successful projects
and conserving specific habitats. www.fws.gov/grants
Private Foundations/philanthropic Sources
American Greenways Eastman Kodak Awards
The Conservation Fund’s American Greenways Program has teamed
with the Eastman Kodak Corporation and the National Geographic
Society to award small grants ($250 to $2,000) to stimulate the
planning, design and development of greenways. These grants
can be used for activities such as mapping, conducting ecological
assessments, surveying land, holding conferences, developing
brochures, producing interpretive displays, incorporating land
trusts, and building trails. Grants cannot be used for academic
research, institutional support, lobbying or political activities. For
more information visit the Conservation Fund website at
www.conservationfund.org
El Pomar Foundation
The El Pomar Foundation supports Colorado projects related to
health, human services, education, arts and humanities, and civic
and community initiatives. Generally, El Pomar does not fund
seasonal activities, travel or media projects, but their funding has
supported other aspects of cultural heritage tourism, including
regional planning and development. Recipients must be not-forprofit 501(c)(3) organizations. www.elpomar.org
Save America’s Treasures
The Save America’s Treasures (SAT) Historic Preservation Grant
funds preservation and conservation of nationally significant
intellectual and cultural artifacts and historic structures and sites.
Those eligible include federal agencies funded by the Department
of the Interior, nonprofit 501(c) organizations, units of state or
local government, recognized Indian tribes and active religious

organizations that meet all other criteria. These grants require a
dollar-for-dollar nonfederal match, which may be cash, services or
equipment. Recipients must meet standards set out by SAT.
www.saveamericastreasures.org

Center for Disease Control
CDC maintains a listing of funding opportunities – some of which
could support physical activity projects or programming.
http://www.cdc.gov/od/pgo/funding/FOAs.htm

W. K. Kellogg Foundation
The Kellogg Foundation provides grants in four interest areas. The
Rural Development Interest Area is the most applicable to cultural
heritage tourism. Grants in this area are to “... fund collaborative
comprehensive and inclusive approaches to rural economic
development.” Many organizations are eligible, but the process is
highly competitive. The process starts with the submission of a preproposal. Full proposals are then solicited. It is imperative that the
grant proposal fall within the foundation’s programmatic interests
and guidelines. www.wkkf.org

Kaiser Permanente
Focus areas include health care delivery issues facing disadvantaged
populations and special consideration is given to activities that
convene public policy leaders and develop collaborative partnerships
with local, state and national organizations.
http://newsmedia.kaiserpermanente.org/kpweb/pdf/feature/
092communityinvolve/brochure.pdf

The Trust for Public Land (TPL)
The Trust for Public Land (TPL) is a national, nonprofit, land
conservation organization that conserves land for people to enjoy
as parks, community gardens, historic sites, rural lands, and other
natural places, ensuring livable communities for generations to come.
TPL helps agencies and communities identify and raise funds for
conservation from federal, state, local, and philanthropic sources.
TPL helps structure, negotiate, and complete land transactions that
create parks, playgrounds, and protected natural areas.
http://www.tpl.org/
Health & Physical Activity Related Funding
Active Living Network
The Active Living program maintains a listing of funding
opportunities and the Active Living Resource Center has a
downloadable “Guide to Funds for Bicycling and Pedestrian Projects”
at http://www.activeliving.org/index.php/Funding+Opportunities/60
or http://www.activelivingresources.org/funding_sources.html.

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Bikes Belong
The mission of the Grants Program is to put more people on bicycles
more often. The Program accepts and funds applications for three
types of bicycle projects – facilities, education, and advocacy.
http://bikesbelong.oli.us/Grants/GrantseekersGuide06.pdf
Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
The Foundation funds $370 million in grants annually for projects
that “improve the health and health care of all Americans,” including
an emphasis on childhood obesity.
http://www.rwjf.org/applications/index.jsp
Ford Foundation
The Ford Foundation provides community development grants. The
mission of the Foundation is to reduce poverty and injustice and
promote democratic values, international cooperation and human
achievement. Grants are made in three broad programs: Asset
Building and Community Development; Peace and Social Justice;
and Knowledge, Creativity and Freedom.
http://www.rwjf.org/applications/index.jsp

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Appendix A - Community Input
At a public open house in January of 2007, trail enthusiasts, landowners, and
others came to see what the 52-85 Trail Working Group was proposing in terms
of trail alignments. The responses were overwhelmingly positive. The comments
collected at that event and subsequently appear below.
• Right of way acquisition is primary to other tasks. Inject this concept
into master plans of 52-85 area counties and towns.
• Examine possibilities associated with abandoned railroad and utility
easements.
• Conservation easements on significant properties should be considered
before the chance goes away.
• Trail endpoints should be St.Vrain State Park and Barr Lake State Park.
• Need trail connection from Barr Lake across I-76. The 52-85
Group may be the best entity to push for this.
• Incorporate the head gate of the Fort Lupton Bottoms Ditch.
• The asset of the private underpass under US 85 at the Brighton Sugar
Factory must be kept in mind and developed. Safe walking access under/
over a 4 lane highway is too rare to ignore. Pedestrian safety over new
and existing bridges is necessary.

• Communicate with regional waste water board to assure
trail continuity along east side of Platte River Rd 2-2 ½.

• Consider area for
equestrians, even if it’s just
a looped trail.

• Have waypoints/benchmarks (geodesic markers with
latitude and longitude) on trail so that users can mark
their paths and track their routes with GPS and maybe
upload for other users.

•

• The rich mining history of the carbon valley should be
developed as a draw.
January 2007 Open House Participants

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Policing, enforcement
may be necessary.

Appendix B - Resolutions of Support
City of Brighton

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City of Dacono

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Town of Firestone

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City of Fort Lupton

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Town of Frederick

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Appendix C - Funding Mechanism Toolbox
The tables on the following pages were developed for the 2007 Archuleta County, CO Regional
Parks, Recreation, Open Space and Trails Master Plan. With the permission of plan author, Bob
Searns, this resource has been included in this plan for the benefit of the 52-85 Trail Project.